Evolution: Life has Evolved to Evolve

TL;DR

This paper argues that genome modification and rearrangement are fundamental, ongoing processes in life, challenging the traditional view of genomes as mostly static with rare mutations.

Contribution

It synthesizes observations to propose that genomes are dynamic, read-write systems actively reshaped during cellular processes and evolution, emphasizing natural genetic engineering mechanisms.

Findings

Genomes are continuously revised during cellular and evolutionary processes.

DNA formatting controls genetic rearrangements and gene expression.

Natural genetic engineering provides tools for genome restructuring.

Abstract

Jim Shapiro synthesizes a great many observations about the mechanisms of evolution to reach the remarkable conclusion that large-scale modification, exchange, and rearrangement of the genome are common and should be viewed as fundamental features of life. In other words, the genome should be viewed not as mostly read-only with a few rare mutations, but rather as a fully-fledged read-write library of genetic functions under continuous revision. Revision of the genome occurs during cellular replication, during multicellular development, and during evolution of a population of individuals. DNA formatting controls the timing and location of genetic rearrangements, gene expression, and genetic repair. Each of these events is under the control of precise cellular circuits. Shapiro reviews the toolbox of natural genetic engineering that provides the functionalities necessary for efficient long-term genome restructuring.