Does genetic conflict drive rapid molecular evolution of nuclear transport genes in Drosophila?

Article Abstract:

The molecular properties of the Segregation Distorter (SD) of Drosophila melanogaster hint at a previously unrecognized genetic conflict that predates SD and that might have far-reaching evolutionary consequences. The wild-type RanGAP, and possibly other loci, are believed to be caught up in such a conflict that could have stimulated an unexpectedly rapid evolution of nuclear transport-related genes.

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Turning back the clock on neural progenitors

Article Abstract:

The fact that many Drosophila neural progenitor cells or neuroblasts go through a characteristic sequence of temporally ordered changes in gene expression is studied. Each neuroblast having a specific identity produces a characteristic and invariant cell lineage by dividing asymmetrically in a stem-cell-like fashion to produce a series of smaller cells, called ganglion mother cells (GMCs).

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Commonalities in compensation

Article Abstract:

The sex chromosomes of many species differ in dosage but the total gene output expression is similar which is referred to as dosage compensation. Two papers present evidence that dosage compensation in Drosophila, mammals and nematodes share the property that there is an approximately two-fold upregulation of the single active X chromosome in each case.

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