Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the evolutionary mechanisms of life on Earth by creating viable stem structures of mice using genetic material from choanoflagellate unicellular organisms. This discovery sheds light on the continuity of basic molecular mechanisms over nearly a billion years of evolution.
The study, led by Dr. Alex de Mendos from the University of Queen Maria, in collaboration with experts from the University of Hong Kong, examined the Hoanoflagella genome and identified versions of the SOX and POU genes, key factors responsible for pluripotency.
Building on Nobel laureate Sinah Yamanaka’s work on reprogramming factors in the body, the team successfully replaced the SOX2 gene in mice with its ancient version from Hoanoflagellate. This led to cell transformation into a pluripotent state, demonstrating that genetic mechanisms have remained largely unchanged over millions of years of evolution.
Notably, mouse embryos injected with the altered genetic material exhibited unique characteristics, such as black spots on their fur and darkened eyes, demonstrating the manifestation of traits derived from ancient genes.
Choanoflagellates, among the simplest organisms, are considered the closest relatives of animals, despite lacking their own stem cells. The SOX and POU genes in these organisms controlled fundamental life processes, which eventually evolved to regulate tissue differentiation in more complex organisms.
This study highlights nature’s ability to repurpose existing genetic elements for new functions, potentially contributing to the diverse range of life forms we see today. Furthermore, the findings may have implications for the advancement of regenerative medicine by improving existing cell therapy techniques.
– This article is based on information from Nature