Finding their inner bird: Using modern genomics to turn alligator scales into birdlike feathers

(Molecular Biology and Evolution (Oxford University Press)) In a new study published in the advanced online edition of Molecular Biology and Evolution, Chuong has led an international team to identify a plethora of new genes involved in scale and feather development. 'We now have a potential molecular explanation for these hypothesized missing links,' said Chuong.They have also demonstrated the ability to turn scales into feathers, by turning on and off key molecular circuits at critical stages of scale growth and development.

from EurekAlert! - Archaeology http://ift.tt/2iEFJjM