Kehittämääjärjestelmiä

Kehittämääjärjestelmiä, often translated as "developmental systems" or "evolutionary developmental systems," refers to a theoretical framework within evolutionary biology that emphasizes the role of various factors beyond genes in shaping evolutionary change. This perspective challenges traditional gene-centric views by highlighting how multiple components of the developmental process contribute to the phenotype and, consequently, to evolution.

These systems include not only genes but also the egg cytoplasm, maternal effects, cellular structures, tissues, and even broader environmental factors like social structures, culture, and physical landscapes. The core idea is that evolution is not solely driven by changes in DNA sequences but also by alterations in how these genes are expressed and interact within the complex developmental context. For instance, changes in maternal provisioning can influence offspring development and survival, impacting evolutionary trajectories without direct genetic mutations.

The concept of developmental systems theory suggests that selection can act on these broader developmental units, not just on individual genes. This means that inherited variations can arise from modifications in the developmental environment or maternal effects, which then become subject to natural selection. This provides a more holistic understanding of inheritance and evolution, recognizing the interconnectedness of genes, development, and environment. It encourages researchers to consider a wider range of causal factors when studying evolutionary processes.