Genomic Change and Morphological Evolution Group Report

Abstract

In our discussions, questions of gene and chromosome organization and possible functional correlates of this organization were treated, as were sequence and organizational changes observed in evolution. We further considered existing knowledge and interpretations regarding the actions of genes in development, how genes are utilized, why so many are needed, and how their arrangement may affect activity. We discussed gene famlies, repeated sequences, and in particular, transposable DNA elements and the consequences of their existence for genomic flexibility. Specifically genetic approaches to the study of gene function were addressed, leading to the discussion of gene hierarchies and the apparent existence of control genes. Finally, we considered the problems posed by the activity of many genes and the probable existence of very large numbers of interactions between them.