The Wisdom of the Genes : New Pathways in Evolution

Discusses how molecular biology has affected the evolution of life and the process of evolution itself

The intersection of genetics, evolutionary science and molecular biology has produced remarkable findings in recent years. Jumping genes--pieces of DNA that move about the chromosomes--have been found to play an influential role. Parasites that actually live inside DNA can trigger mutations. Many biologists, among them UCLA professor Wills, believe that the process of evolution has grown easier over the eons because certain gene patterns turn some species into ever-more-agile adapters to environmental changes. How butterflies mimic look-alike cousins, the mix of marsupial and placental mammals in Australia and South America and the reign of the therapsids during the 50-million-year stretch before the dinosaurs are some of the intriguing phenomena Wills discusses in this lively primer of modern evolutionary theory. He uses apt analogies and examples but avoids oversimplification. Illustrations.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

The process of evolution is becoming "easier with time," according to Wills (biology, Univ. of Cal.). During three bil lion years of practice, evolutionary "tool boxes" (e.g., jumping genes, super gene complexes) have arisen which facilitate an organism's ability to evolve. Citing ex amples in which enhanced genetic evolu tion con be witnessed in the laboratory (antibodies, glycolytic enzymes, insect su pergene complexes) and suggesting possi ble pathways taken through evolutionary history, the author illustrates a novel the ory of evolution. Wills makes frequent and effective use of analogies to make these extraordinary processes comprehensible. Nevertheless, some of his book may be out of reach of those not well versed in chemis try or biology. This solid contribution to evolutionary theory is appropriate for aca demic or major public libraries.
-Laurie Bartolini, Lincoln Lib., Springfield, Ill.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.