A fascinating reminder that evolution builds on what already exists! Some of the genes behind animal multicellularity may have first played a role in aggregation, helping unicellular ancestors come together and form groups long before the first animals evolved. Super cool study!
Anna Papageorgiou
1/10
For decades, cellular aggregation was considered an evolutionary dead end.
Cells could come together temporarily.
But complex multicellular organisms like animals?
Our study, led by JP Gerdt, with Ruibao & @jennahed.bsky.social suggests it may be time to rethink that🧵 #ProtistsOnSKy
