Epigenetic Inheritance and Evolution: The Lamarckian Dimension

by Eva Jablonka, Marion Lamb

Overview

Does the inheritance of acquired characteristics play a significant role in evolution? In this book, Eva Jablonka and Marion J. Lamb attempt to answer that question with an original, provocative exploration of the nature and origin of hereditary variations. Starting with a historical account of Lamarck's ideas and the reasons they have fallen in disrepute, the authors go on to challenge the prevailing assumption that all heritable variation is random and the result of variation in DNA base sequences. They also detail recent breakthroughs in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying inheritance—including several pathways not envisioned by classical population genetics—and argue that these advances need to be more fully incorporated into mainstream evolutionary theory. Throughout, the book offers a new look at the evidence for and against the hereditability of environmentally induced changes, and addresses timely questions about the importance of non-Mendelian inheritance. A glossary and extensive list of references round out the book. Urging a reconsideration of the present DNA-centric view prevalent in the field, Epigentic Inheritance and Evolution will make fascinating and important reading for students and researchers in evolution, genetics, ecology, molecular biology, developmental biology, and the history and philosophy of science.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780198540632
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	05/11/1995
Series:	Lamarckian Dimension
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	360
Product dimensions:	9.21(w) x 6.14(h) x 0.75(d)
Lexile:	1430L (what's this?)

About the Author

Tel-Aviv University

University of London

Table of Contents

Preface1. The Legacy of Lamarckism2. Neodarwinian Explanations of the Inheritance of Acquired Characters3. Induced Genetic Variations4. Cellular Heredity: Epigenetic Inheritance Systems5. Genomic Imprinting: The Inheritance of Directed Epigenetic Variations6. Interactions Between Genetic and Epigenetic Inheritance7. The Role of Epigenetic Inheritance Systems in Adaptive Evolution8. Heredity and the Origin of Species9. Multiple Inheritance SystemsGlossary

Editorial Reviews

"...a challenging and useful book, both because it provokes a careful scrutiny of one's own basic ideas regarding evolutionary theory, and because it cuts across so many biological disciplines."—The Quarterly Review of Biology

"In my view, this work exemplifies Theoretical Biology at its best...here is rampant speculation that is consistently based on cautious reasoning from the available data. Even more refreshing is the absence of sloganeering, grandstanding, and "isms"."—Biology and Philosophy

"Epigenetics is fundamental to understanding both development and gene expression, and not surprisingly, evolutionary biologists have long been fascinated with its proper place in evolutionary theory...Enter Jablonka and Lamb, who provide a thoughtful review of the recent molecular literature and suggest a number of potential consequences."—Evolution

From the Publisher