Transcription factor DUO1 generated by neo-functionalization is associated with evolution of sperm differentiation in plants

• DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-07728-3
• Publication Date: 2018-12-05T12:37:26Z
• Authors: Asuka Higo; Tomokazu Kawashima; Michael Borg; Mingmin Zhao; Irene López-Vidriero; Hidetoshi Sakayama; Sean A. Montgomery; Hiroyuki Sekimoto; Dieter Hackenberg; Masaki Shimamura; Tomoaki Nishiyama; Keiko Sakakibara; Yuki Tomita; Taisuke Togawa; Kan Kunimoto; Akihisa Osakabe; Yutaka Suzuki; Katsuyuki T. Yamato; Kimitsune Ishizaki; Ryuichi Nishihama; Takayuki Kohchi; José M. Franco-Zo...; David Twell; Frédéric Berger; Takashi Araki
• Keywords: Lineage (genetic); Multicellular organism; MYB; Sexual reproduction

Abstract Evolutionary mechanisms underlying innovation of cell types have remained largely unclear. In multicellular eukaryotes, the evolutionary molecular origin sperm differentiation is unknown in most lineages. Here, we report that algal ancestors land plants, changes DNA-binding domain ancestor MYB transcription factor DUO1 enabled recognition a new cis- regulatory element. This event led to motile sperm. After neo-functionalization, acquired lineage-specific expression common plants. Subsequently downstream network was rewired leading with distinct morphologies. Conjugating green algae, sister group accumulated mutations and lost differentiation. Our findings suggest emergence defining evolution varied modes sexual reproduction plant lineage.