Gene duplication

Definition

Gene duplication is a biological process where a segment of DNA containing a gene is copied, resulting in two identical or similar genes within the genome. This phenomenon can lead to genetic diversity and evolution, as one copy may retain the original function while the other is free to accumulate mutations and potentially acquire new functions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gene duplication is a significant source of genetic variation, allowing organisms to adapt to changing environments and evolve new traits.
2. Duplication can occur through various mechanisms, including unequal crossing over during meiosis or replication errors.
3. Not all duplicated genes remain functional; some may become nonfunctional (pseudogenes) if they lose their original coding ability.
4. Gene duplication can lead to the formation of gene families, where multiple related genes exist that share a common ancestor and may have similar functions.
5. Studies have shown that many essential developmental genes in organisms like mammals have arisen through gene duplication events.

Review Questions

• How does gene duplication contribute to genetic diversity within populations?
  • Gene duplication contributes to genetic diversity by creating additional copies of genes that can evolve independently. One copy may maintain its original function, while the other can undergo mutations, potentially leading to new functions or adaptations. This process allows populations to explore a broader range of traits and increases their ability to adapt to environmental changes.
• Discuss the significance of homologous genes in understanding evolutionary relationships between species.
  • Homologous genes provide crucial insights into evolutionary relationships because they indicate shared ancestry among species. By comparing the sequences and functions of homologous genes, researchers can infer how different species have evolved over time. Gene duplication events can help trace these relationships and highlight common pathways in evolution, illustrating how diverse life forms are interconnected.
• Evaluate the implications of gene duplication on genome evolution and its role in the development of complex traits.
  • Gene duplication has profound implications for genome evolution as it serves as a driving force behind the emergence of complex traits. By generating additional genetic material, duplications allow for functional divergence, where one gene copy can adapt to new roles without compromising the original function. This flexibility facilitates innovation in biological processes and can lead to the development of novel features, enhancing an organism's adaptability and survival in diverse environments.

Related terms

homologous genes: Genes that are similar in structure and sequence due to shared ancestry, often resulting from events like gene duplication.

functional divergence: The process through which duplicated genes evolve different functions over time, contributing to the complexity and adaptability of organisms.

genome evolution: The process by which the structure and function of genomes change over time, often driven by mechanisms such as gene duplication, mutation, and selection.