Paralogue

A paralogue is a member of a gene family that has arisen through gene duplication within a single genome and shares a common evolutionary ancestor with other members of the family, referred to as orthologues, but has diverged to perform different or related functions. These genes are homologous, meaning they share ancestry, but their divergent evolution leads to unique or modified biological roles. They are often found in different locations within the genome. The study of paralogues provides insights into gene evolution, functional diversification, and the development of complex biological systems. Understanding their relationships helps clarify the mechanisms of evolutionary adaptation and the expansion of genetic repertoires. Their comparative analysis also contributes to identifying potentially important genes involved in disease.

Paralogue meaning with examples

• Researchers analyzed a family of transcription factor paralogues in fruit flies, observing significant differences in their expression patterns during development. These differences suggest the functional divergence of these genes. This divergence likely allows for fine-tuned regulation of gene expression, contributing to the complexity of the insect's developmental processes.
• In plant genetics, scientists studied the paralogues of a key enzyme involved in photosynthesis, demonstrating how variations in these genes led to adaptations to different light environments. Some paralogues perform better under high light conditions and others under low light, promoting species survival.
• A study of a family of olfactory receptor paralogues in mice revealed that each member detects a different subset of odor molecules. This differential detection broadens the mouse's ability to detect diverse odors, supporting the diversity of smells mice can experience.
• Examining a series of ion channel paralogues in neurons, researchers determined that while all bind to the same neurotransmitter, they exhibit diverse kinetic and biophysical properties, leading to specific neuronal signaling. These differences are critical for precise information processing.
• Comparative genomics unveiled how the duplication and divergence of a certain kinase paralogue family correlated with the radiation of a major bacterial lineage. This insight showed a significant genetic element in the success of this bacterial lineage in varied ecological niches.