Reconstruction of specialized metabolite evolution through molecular switches

Introduction

Novel traits can provide fitness advantages and drive evolution. New specialised metabolites are traits that arose in different plant lineages and even replaced existing metabolites. Why and how almost universal metabolic pathways can be replaced in entire groups of species by biochemically distinct pathways, without the persistence of any species producing both metabolites, remains unknown. Components of gene regulatory networks that control such pathways might act as regulatory switches that flip between pathways.

Opportunity for Research

The replacement of the widely conserved red pigment anthocyanin by the biochemically distinct betalains offers a unique opportunity to understand the integration of novel traits into existing regulatory systems. Notably, no plant species producing both anthocyanins and betalains has yet been identified, but both show similar environmental responses.

Methodology

The unification of systems biology with population and molecular genomics allows us to elucidate the role of gene regulatory networks and regulatory switches in metabolite evolution.

Importance of the Research

Given the great importance of understanding evolutionary innovation and the potential use for metabolic engineering, our work promises to be groundbreaking and have a profound impact on many different fields of evolutionary and genetic research.

Specific Aims

Specifically, our work plan includes the following aims:

1. Identify regulatory networks and switches that enabled the exchange of metabolic pathways.
2. Analyze the fitness consequences of reciprocal pathway exchange and regulatory switching.
3. Reveal the short-term selection consequences of metabolites during the domestication of food crops.

Conclusion

Understanding how metabolic pathways can be exchanged in plants will provide insights into the important embedding of evolutionary innovation into existing systems, with potential practical applications for crop improvement and bio-engineering.