Journal Article
The Mexican Tetra, Astyanax mexicanus, as a model system in cell and developmental biology
Perera, P.P., Guerra, D.P. and Riddle, M.R.
Record Number:
6236
Year:
2023
Journal:
Annual Review of Cell and Developmental Biology
Pages:
9.1–9.22
Volume:
39
Abstract:
Our understanding of cell and developmental biology has been greatly aided
by a focus on a small number of model organisms. However, we are now in
an era where techniques to investigate gene function can be applied across
phyla, allowing scientists to explore the diversity and flexibility of develop-
mental mechanisms and gain a deeper understanding of life. Researchers
comparing the eyeless cave-adapted Mexican tetra, Astyanax mexicanus, with
its river-dwelling counterparts are revealing how the development of the
eye, pigment, brain, cranium, blood, and digestive system evolves as animals
adapt to new environments. Breakthroughs in our understanding of the ge-
netic and developmental basis of regressive and constructive trait evolution
have come from A. mexicanus research.They include understanding the types
of mutations that alter traits, which cellular and developmental processes
they affect, and how they lead to pleiotropy. We review recent progress in
the field and highlight areas for future investigations that include evolution
of sex differentiation, neural crest development, and metabolic regulation of
embryogenesis.
Times Cited:
1
Relevent Species: