All multicellularity articles
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NewsA common CRISPR platform enables comparative studies of multicellularity in social amoebae
Researchers have established a CRISPR genome editing technique that enables comparative analysis of the evolution of multicellularity across different species of social amoebas (cellular slime molds). Until now, genetic studies had been largely restricted to a single model species.
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NewsStudy identifies a molecular switch that controls transitions between single-celled and multicellular forms
How did multicellular life evolve from single cells? Researchers have identified genes in marine yeast that may help answer this fundamental question.
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News‘She loves me, she loves me not’: physical forces encouraged evolution of multicellular life, scientists propose
A new study presents a striking example of cooperative organization among cells as a potential force in the evolution of multicellular life. The paper is based on the fluid dynamics of cooperative feeding by Stentor, a relatively giant unicellular organism.
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NewsTiny microbe colonies communicate to coordinate their behavior
A new study reveals evidence of electrical signaling and coordinated behavior in choanoflagellates, the closest living relatives of animals. This cell communication offers insights into the early evolution of animal multicellularity and nervous systems.
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NewsComplex green organisms emerged a billion years ago
Using modern gene sequencing data, researchers investigating the evolutionary history of morphological complexity in streptophytes have pinpointed the emergence of multicellularity to almost a billion years ago.
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NewsAlgae yield clues to how complex life developed
Researchers studying green algae in Swedish lakes have succeeded in identifying which environmental conditions promote multicellularity.