What Is Evolvability
Evolvability is recognised as the ability of an organism of any particular lineage to develop heritable phenotypic variation (Kirschner, 1998). Darwin’s theory of evolution is fundamental to Evolvability, as it is evolution which allows for the development of this heritable phenotypic variation. This variation could stem from natural selection or it could be from the result of acquired genetic change functions which can lead to novel functions.
Evolvability can be applied to any living system on all levels, so even to include components such as RNA molecules, pathways, proteins and even multicultural organisms (Wagner 2005). Because of this fact new creations are witnessed in a variety of different levels, from newly developed functional proteins to the introduction of wings, eyes or other organs into an organism (Wagner, 2005). Kirschner (1998) stated that the capacity to develop heritable genetic variation may have two components: 1) To decrease number of fatal mutations 2) To decrease the amount mutations needed to develop variation that can eventually lead to a functional phenotypic trait that is heritable.
Evolvability enhances the evolutionary process by allowing for new innovations to be developed within populations. It allows for a population to continuously evolve and change in response to various environmental stressors. Michod et al (2003) stated that evolvability in lower level units, needs to be limited whereas evolvability on higher units (which actually bring about change), need to be enhanced as it is changes that lead to the development of new innovations. In order for variation to occur cooperation needs to exist between both lower level and higher level units within an organism.
Possible future directions of evolvability research
Organisms have evolved throughout the generations but in addition to this they have evolved to evolve. This can be seen through the workings of Rutherford and Lindquist, Landry et al and Lindquist and True. This ability has enhanced the evolutionary process greatly by allowing for organisms to survive when placed under selective pressure. The relevance of evolvability will become more widespread as more research is done and more is learnt about the underlying mechanism behind evolvability. Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease, a rare lethal neurological disorder, is thought to be caused by genes that have developed the ability to produce prions. The mechanism behind the ability of these genes to develop such confirmations is not well understood, but evolvability is thought to play a key role (Gavora et al, 2005). By gaining a true understanding and appreciation of evolvability and its underlying processes; it would cause evolvability to be considered in various new realms such as modern medicine and drug design. Figuring out a pathogens ability to develop antibiotic resistance and how we can alter the mechanism which causes this change is the “Holy Grail” to reducing the recent incidences in hospital super bugs. If this was a possibility it would spark interest on a scientific, social and political platform.
