Understanding Evolutionary Developmental Biology

The video explores the aspirations of young scientists and introduces evolutionary developmental biology (Evo-Devo), highlighting genetic similarities among species. It delves into the role of developmental regulatory genes, particularly hox genes, in body organization. Through experiments, the video demonstrates how small changes in regulatory genes can lead to significant evolutionary changes, offering insights into rapid evolution. The video concludes with a call for future research in this emerging field.

What is one of the misconceptions children have about being a scientist?

• They will create new species.

• They will work with animals.

• They will travel to space.

• They will blow things up in a lab.

What percentage of genetic similarity do humans share with mice?

• 50%

• 85%

• 98.6%

• 75%

What is the primary role of developmental regulatory genes?

• To activate genes that assemble body parts.

• To create new species.

• To produce energy for cells.

• To destroy harmful genes.

What do hox genes control in an organism?

• The lifespan of the organism.

• The speed of growth.

• The color of the skin.

• The identity and organization of body parts.

What does Evo-Devo suggest about the so-called 'junk DNA'?

• It might contain regulatory genes.

• It is only found in plants.

• It is responsible for diseases.

• It is completely useless.

How do regulatory genes influence the speed of evolution?

• By making organisms immune to diseases.

• By increasing the lifespan of organisms.

• By causing rapid mutations in all genes.

• By allowing small changes in regulatory genes to have large effects.

What was the result of inserting a mouse hox gene into a fruit fly embryo?

• The fly grew larger than normal.

• The fly developed extra wings.

• The fly developed a mouse eye.

• The fly developed a fruit fly eye in an unusual location.

What is the significance of regulatory genes being similar across different species?

• It suggests that all animals have the same lifespan.

• It proves that evolution is a myth.

• It indicates a common evolutionary blueprint.

• It shows that all species are identical.

What evolutionary feature was observed in mutant chicken embryos?

• They had extra feathers.

• They formed small teeth.

• They grew larger beaks.

• They developed scales.

What is an example of an evolutionary throwback observed in snakes?

• Snakes with gills.

• Snakes with fur.

• Snakes with wings.

• Snakes with legs.