Abstract: During evolution genes are continuously gained and lost, contributing to the adaptation of the organism to a changing environment. The best understood mechanism for the birth of new genes is the duplication and modification of already existing genes. However, in recent years, evidence has been gathered that some genes are born de novo from previously non-coding genomic sequences. The proteins encoded by de novo genes bear no resemblance to other proteins and thus represent radical innovations.

Over the past 10 years we have investigated the mechanisms underlying de novo gene birth, including the emergence of novel transcripts, the translation of small ORFs and the functions of recently originated proteins. Whereas some of these processes are now better understood, many mysteries remain. The talk will present a summary of the research in the area and the challenges ahead.

Venue: Sala d’actes de la FiB (Campus Nord)

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