Evolution and development of insect wings

One of the key concepts revealed by modern developmental biology is that the structure and function of genes crucial for development are remarkably conserved across animal taxa, even between insects and mammals. However, it is often less emphasized that these same, apparently well-conserved genes are also responsible for generating the extraordinary diversity observed among living organisms. The research in our lab centered around this fascinating paradox.

How do these developmental genes give rise to such diverse structures when they are so well conserved throughout evolution? What are the major mechanisms driving morphological evolution: changes in interactions among gene products, alterations in the regulation of gene expression, modifications of gene function, or even the emergence of new genes? What molecular and developmental mechanisms underlie the evolution of morphologically novel structures? Does the evolution of gene regulatory networks (GRNs), such as the wing gene network (WGN), follow predictable trends, underlying principles, or inherent constraints?

These are some of the main questions guiding our research program. The remarkable diversity of insect wings provides an excellent model for exploring the molecular foundations of morphological evolution. We investigate both conserved and divergent aspects of the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying wing development in various insects, including the fruit fly (Drosophila) and the red flour beetle (Tribolium). Through these comparative studies, we aim to uncover the changes in genetic mechanisms that have contributed to the evolution and diversification of insect wings.

Currently, our lab focuses on how gene regulatory networks, particularly those governing wing development, are modified to generate lineage-specific structures such as elytra, the forewing-derived protective shields of beetles. In parallel, we investigate the evolutionary origin of insect wings, one of the most consequential innovations in animal evolution, from an evolutionary developmental biology (evo-devo) perspective.

To address these questions, we employ a range of functional approaches, including RNA interference (RNAi)-based gene knockdown, CRISPR-mediated genome editing, and enhancer analysis, to connect gene function with morphological outcomes across taxa. Through this integrative approach, our lab aims to uncover general principles underlying the origin, diversification, and homology of complex traits throughout evolution.