Deep Homology?
Uncanny Similarities of Humans and Flies Uncovered by Evo-Devo

A comparison of the genetic circuits of Homo sapiens and Drosophila reveals the evidence for deep homology.

Lewis I. Held, Jr (Author)

9781107147188, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 16 February 2017

290 pages, 27 b/w illus. 45 tables
25.4 x 18 x 1.7 cm, 0.74 kg

'… this is a valuable reference work. That said, it is not a long book, more a monograph, but it is densely packed with information and discussion. I found it surprisingly accessible, despite the state-of-the-art content.' Les Rose, The Biologist

Humans and flies look nothing alike, yet their genetic circuits are remarkably similar. Here, Lewis I. Held, Jr compares the genetics and development of the two to review the evidence for deep homology, the biggest discovery from the emerging field of evolutionary developmental biology. Remnants of the operating system of our hypothetical common ancestor 600 million years ago are compared in chapters arranged by region of the body, from the nervous system, limbs and heart, to vision, hearing and smell. Concept maps provide a clear understanding of the complex subjects addressed, while encyclopaedic tables offer comprehensive inventories of genetic information. Written in an engaging style with a reference section listing thousands of relevant publications, this is a vital resource for scientific researchers, and graduate and undergraduate students.

1. Body axes
2. Nervous system
3. Vision
4. Touch and hearing
5. Smell and taste
6. Limbs
7. Heart.

Subject Areas: Human biology [PSX], Cellular biology [cytology PSF], Molecular biology [PSD], Developmental biology [PSC], Evolution [PSAJ], Biology, life sciences [PS], Human growth & development [MFKH]