Inactivation of ancV1R as a Predictive Signature for the Loss of Vomeronasal System in Mammals.

摘要: The vomeronasal organ (VNO) plays a key role in sensing pheromonal cues, which elicits social and reproductive behaviors. Although the VNO is highly conserved across mammals, it has been lost some species that have evolved alternate systems during diversification. In this study, we investigate newly identified VNO-specific gene, ancV1R, extant 261 of mammals to examine correlation between genotype (ancV1R) phenotype (VNO). As result, found signatures for relaxation purifying selection (inactivating mutations elevation dN/dS) on ancV1Rs VNO-lacking such as catarrhine primates, cetaceans, manatees, several bat lineages, showing distinct phenotype. Interestingly, further revealed ancV1R true seals, otters, fossa, owl monkey, alcelaphine antelopes existence functional still under debate. Our additional analyses TRPC2, another predictive marker gene VNO, showed selection, supporting possibility loss these species. results our present study invite more in-depth neuroanatomical investigation function remains equivocal.