Green-beard’ genes could explain how altruism arose in nature

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Last Updated06/06/2024

Scientists have gained valuable new insights into natural altruism by studying the amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum.

Researchers have identified "green-beard" genes that enable individuals carrying the same gene variant to recognize and cooperate with each other preferentially.
Furthermore, mechanisms such as gene expression and protein binding have been observed to facilitate cooperation and deter exploitation within social groups of amoebae.
Green-beard genes, named for their hypothetical ability to "recognize" and cooperate with others bearing the same gene, play a crucial role in fostering altruistic behavior.
Alternatively, these genes can induce harmful behavior towards those with different gene variants.
The Role of Tgr Genes: Two genes, tgrB1 and tgrC1, have been identified in Dictyostelium discoideum, which regulate altruistic behavior. These genes facilitate cell recognition and cooperation, ensuring that altruistic amoebae recognize and cooperate with their kin.
These findings not only shed light on the genetic mechanisms driving altruism but also offer broader insights into the evolution of cooperation and sociality across diverse species.