Abstract Detail

Development and Structure

Baker, Robert (Rob) [1], Brock, Grace [2], Newsome, Eastyn [3], Zhao, Meixia [4].

Network analysis reveals evolution of phenotypic integration and relationships between anatomy, morphology, and physiology in response to polyploidy.

Most traits are polygenic and most genes are pleiotropic resulting in complex, integrated phenotypes. Phenotypic integration can result in rapid evolutionary changes among many traits despite selection upon only one or a few. Conversely, phenotypic integration may constrain evolutionary potential if selection on a trait also results in unfavorable changes in non-target traits. Polyploidy affords an excellent opportunity to explore the evolution of phenotypic integration as entire genomes are duplicated, potentially allowing for new trait associations and either increased or decreased phenotypic integration. Despite the multivariate nature of phenotypic evolution, previous studies rely on either bivariate correlations or data reduction techniques such as principal components analyses. We compare bivariate correlations with a multivariate network analysis to examine the evolution of phenotypic integration following polyploidy in six species of  Brassica. We identify four key structural traits that are overrepresented in the evolution of phenotypic integration while examining network topology and membership to identify the connections between structures (anatomy and morphology) and functions (physiological processes). Seeding networks with key traits involved in the evolution of phenotypic integration allowed us to identify structure-function relationships not apparent from bivariate analyses. Phenotypic network analysis provides important insights as to the potential effects of selection on non-target traits and may allow for more nuanced predictions of the outcomes of crop improvement programs and natural selection.

Related Links:
Bake Lab Website

1 - Miami University, Biology Department, 700 E High St, Pearson 390, Oxford, OH, 45056, United States
2 - Miami University, Biology, Pearson 212, 700 E High St. Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, US
3 - Purdue University, Botany and Plant Pathology, 915 West State St., West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
4 - Miami University, Biology, Pearson 212, 700 E High St. Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA

Keywords:
phenotypic integration
polyploidy
Brassicaceae
co-expression network
network property
phenotypic network
structure-function relationships
anatomy
morphology
Physiology.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: DS3, Development and Structure III
Location: /
Date: Thursday, July 22nd, 2021
Time: 10:15 AM(EDT)
Number: DS3002
Abstract ID:349
Candidate for Awards:None