Gene Behind Marsupial Gliding Abilities Identified

New research reveals the genetic mechanisms enabling marsupials like sugar gliders to glide, highlighting the gene Emx2's pivotal role.

Researchers have pinpointed the gene Emx2 as key to the development of the patagium, a skin membrane that allows marsupials to glide.
The gene Emx2 is expressed longer in sugar gliders compared to other mammals, facilitating the growth of their gliding membrane.
Genomic comparisons between gliding and non-gliding marsupials show accelerated evolution in regions affecting Emx2's activity.
This discovery underscores how different species can evolve similar traits through variations in genetic regulation.
The findings could provide insights into the broader principles of evolutionary biology and trait development.