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Review
. 2014 Jan 8;281(1777):20132450.
doi: 10.1098/rspb.2013.2450. Print 2014 Feb 22.

Horizontal gene transfer in the acquisition of novel traits by metazoans

Luis Boto  1
Affiliations
Review

Horizontal gene transfer in the acquisition of novel traits by metazoans

Luis Boto. Proc Biol Sci. .

Abstract

Horizontal gene transfer is accepted as an important evolutionary force modulating the evolution of prokaryote genomes. However, it is thought that horizontal gene transfer plays only a minor role in metazoan evolution. In this paper, I critically review the rising evidence on horizontally transferred genes and on the acquisition of novel traits in metazoans. In particular, I discuss suspected examples in sponges, cnidarians, rotifers, nematodes, molluscs and arthropods which suggest that horizontal gene transfer in metazoans is not simply a curiosity. In addition, I stress the scarcity of studies in vertebrates and other animal groups and the importance of forthcoming studies to understand the importance and extent of horizontal gene transfer in animals.

Keywords: evolution; horizontal gene transfer; metazoans; novel traits.

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