Evolutionary implications of genetic conflicts: evolu-tion of life-cycles, antagonistic co-evolutions and population control using gene drives

Nicolas Rode
Biological Center for Population Management, Montpellier, France

Genetic conflicts represent a ubiquitous evolutionary phenomenon whereby some genetic elements possess a phenotypic effect that increases their own transmission at the expense of other genetic elements in the genome. These conflicts can be due to differences in transmission between different parts of a same genome (e.g. nucleo-cytoplasmic conflicts) or to divergent evolutionary interests among individuals of the same species (e.g. sexual conflicts between males and females). Recently, genetic conflicts have inspired new population control technics based on the release of individuals carrying synthetic selfish genetic elements (gene drives). Based on my past and current research, I will provide an overview of different types of genetic conflicts and show how they can shape the evolution of life-cycles or drive sexually antagonistic coevolution between the sexes. Finally, I will show how previous research on genetic conflicts can provide important insights into the various environmental risks associated with population control using gene drives.

Recent publications:

Rode N.O., Estoup A., Bourguet D., Courtier-Orgogozo V., Débarre F. 2019. Population management using gene drive: molecular design, models of spread dynamics and assessment of ecological risks. Conservation Genetics, 20: 671–690.

Clergeot P.-H.^†, Rode N. O.^†, Glémin S., Brandström-Durling M., Ihrmark K., & Olson Å. 2019. Estimating the fitness effect of deleterious mutations during the two phases of the life cycle: a new method applied to the root-rot fungus Heterobasidion parviporum. Genetics, 211: 963-976.

Rode N.O., Soroye P., Kassen R., Rundle H.D. 2017. Air-borne genotype by genotype indirect genetic effects are substantial in the filamentous fungus Aspergillus nidulans. Heredity, 119: 1-7.

Rode N.O., Charmantier A. & Lenormand T. 2011. Male-female coevolution in the wild: evidence from a time series in Artemia franciscana. Evolution, 65: 2881-2892.