Induced Mutations in Yeast Cell Populations Adapting to an Unforeseen Challenge

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0111133
• Publication Date: 2014-10-23T21:24:42Z
• Authors: Lindsay S. Moore; Wu Wei; Elad Stolovicki; Tamar Benbenishty; Stefan Wilkening; Lars M. Steinmetz; Erez Braun; Lior David
• Keywords: Lineage (genetic); Experimental Evolution; Mutation Accumulation; Positive selection

The modern evolutionary synthesis assumes that mutations occur at random, independently of the environment in which they confer an advantage. However, there are indications cells facing challenging conditions can adapt rapidly, utilizing processes beyond selection pre-existing genetic variation. Here, we show a strong regulatory challenge induce many independent yeast cells, absence general mutagenesis. Whole genome sequencing cell lineages reveals repertoire within single lineage arose only after were exposed to environment, while other same adapted without any mutation their genomes. Thus, our experiments uncovered multiple alternative routes for heritable adaptation all induced during short time period. Our results demonstrate existence mechanisms random mutation, suggesting tight connection between physiological and processes.