The ParaHox gene cluster is an evolutionary sister of the Hox gene cluster
Article Abstract:
The Hox cluster genes are restricted to the animal kingdom and are important in axial patterning in divergent animal phyla. The origin of the Hox gene cluster remains obscure and it is thought that it arose by tandem gene duplication. Many homebox genes having high sequence identity to Hox genes are known as dispersed Hox-like genes. It is shown that three such dispersed homebox genes form a gene cluster in the cephalochordate amphioxus, and it is argued that it is an evolutionary sister of the Hox gene cluster.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1998
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Dicyemids are higher animals
Article Abstract:
Dicyemids, microscopic creatures which live on octopuses and squid, have no cavities or organs, giving them an exceedingly simple body plan. This has given cause for phylogenetic controversy for some time. Dicyemids are known to be primitive animals, but there is doubt as to their phylogenetic placement in relation to other basal taxa such as Cnidaria and Placozoa.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1999
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