Crossroads between Gene Regulatory Networks and Evolution

Dear Colleagues,

Gene regulatory networks (GRNs) explain how genetic information controls various aspects of living systems, from development to behaviour; however, their evolution remains poorly understood. While traditionally limited to a few model systems, the recent development of molecular (e.g., single-cell technology and CRISPR) and computational methods has opened the opportunity to investigate GRNs controlling the different levels of biological organisation in a multitude of organisms at an unprecedented level of resolution. These technical developments, combined with the definition of a unified language, will open the opportunity to understand general and common rules governing evolution GRNs.

This Special Issue aims to synthesise the current field of GRNs in different organisms and to add breakthrough findings that could improve our understanding of GRN evolution. We are looking for original research and review articles that will contribute to understanding the evolution of GRNs at a different level of biological organisation from gene circuits to cells, organs, and organisms.

This Special Issue will focus on developing common language and tools to investigate the evolution of GRNs in living forms, providing, ultimately, general principles that can be used to rewrite cell fate and design synthetic circuits.

Dr. Maria Ina Arnone
Prof. Paola Oliveri
Dr. Roberto Feuda
Guest Editors

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