Epigenetic Lamarck

The percentage of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) in eukaryotes is difficult to precisely quantify, and it varies significantly depending on the lineage. Here's what we know: HGT is widespread: Studies have shown that HGT occurs in a vast majority of eukaryotic lineages, with estimates suggesting that over 90% of eukaryotes with sequenced genomes show evidence of HGT. Frequency is low compared to prokaryotes: While widespread, the frequency of HGT in eukaryotes is generally lower than in prokaryotes. This is likely due to the presence of a nuclear membrane and more complex cellular organization in eukaryotes, which can act as barriers to gene transfer. Variable across lineages: The amount of HGT varies considerably among different eukaryotic groups. For instance: Protists: Some protist lineages, particularly those living in close association with bacteria, exhibit higher rates of HGT. Plants: HGT has been documented in plants, with evidence suggesting gene transfer

The article "Integrated transcriptomics and epigenomics reveal chamber-specific and species-specific characteristics of human and mouse hearts" delves into the intricate molecular mechanisms that govern the development and function of the human and mouse heart. While seemingly different, humans and mice share a surprising amount of genetic similarity.  About 95% of human genes have a counterpart in mice, and our overall genetic makeup is roughly 85% identical. This similarity was thought to be due to our shared ancestry as mammals.  It allows scientists to use mice as models to study human biology, disease, and potential treatments, though important differences do exist. This research highlights the critical role of gene expression and regulation in shaping the distinct characteristics of their hearts. Deciphering the Multi-Omics Landscape The study employed a multi-omics approach, integrating transcriptomics (the study of gene expression) and epigenomics (the st

The advent of epigenetics has ushered in a new era in our comprehension of heredity and evolution, challenging traditional views and echoing concepts that were once dismissed as outdated. This burgeoning field has provided compelling evidence that environmental factors can induce heritable changes in gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence. This phenomenon, once considered a Lamarckian heresy, is now a cornerstone of modern biology, forcing us to rethink the boundaries between nature and nurture. The Lamarckian Legacy Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, a pioneering naturalist of the early 19th century, proposed that organisms could acquire traits during their lifetime in response to environmental challenges and pass these acquired traits on to their offspring. This concept, known as the inheritance of acquired characteristics, was a radical departure from the prevailing view that heredity was solely determined by fixed, unchanging factors. While Lamarck's ideas