Scientists uncover key mechanism in evolution: Whole-genome duplication drives long-term adaptation
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Scientists uncover key mechanism in evolution: Whole-genome duplication drives long-term adaptation

Sometimes, the most significant scientific discoveries happen by accident. Scientists have long known that whole-genome duplication (WGD)—the process by which organisms copy all their genetic material—plays an important role in evolution. But understanding just how WGD arises, persists, and drives adaptation has remained poorly understood.