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Dryad

Data from: Rapid molecular evolution across amniotes of the IIS/TOR network

Data files

Apr 03, 2016 version files 1.96 GB

Abstract

Comparative analyses of central molecular networks uncover variation that can be targeted by biomedical research to develop insights and interventions into disease. The insulin/insulin-like signaling and target of rapamycin (IIS/TOR) molecular network regulates metabolism, growth, and aging. With the development of new molecular resources for reptiles, we show that genes in IIS/TOR are rapidly evolving within amniotes (mammals and reptiles, including birds). Additionally, we find evidence of natural selection that diversified the hormone-receptor binding relationships that initiate IIS/TOR signaling. Our results uncover substantial variation in the IIS/TOR network within and among amniotes and provide a critical step to unlocking information on vertebrate patterns of genetic regulation of metabolism, modes of reproduction, and rates of aging.