Dominguez et al. (2004) suggest that by studying genes that determine growth and tissue specification in the eye of Drosophila, much can be learned about human eye development.

What evidence suggests that genetic eye determinants in Drosophila are also found in humans? Include a discussion of orthologous genes in your answer.

Key Concepts

Orthologous Genes

Orthologous genes are genes in different species that evolved from a common ancestral gene through speciation. They typically retain the same function across species, making them crucial for comparative studies in genetics. In the context of eye development, identifying orthologous genes between Drosophila and humans can provide insights into conserved genetic pathways that govern similar biological processes.

Gene Function Conservation

Gene function conservation refers to the phenomenon where genes maintain similar roles across different organisms throughout evolution. This concept is significant in genetics as it allows researchers to infer the function of human genes based on studies conducted in model organisms like Drosophila. Evidence of conserved functions in eye development genes suggests that mechanisms governing eye formation may be similar in both species.

Developmental Genetics

Developmental genetics is the field of study that focuses on how genes control the growth and development of organisms. It encompasses the genetic regulation of developmental processes, including organ formation. By examining the genetic determinants of eye development in Drosophila, researchers can uncover fundamental principles that may also apply to human eye development, highlighting the importance of model organisms in understanding complex biological systems.