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Applying evolutionary biology to address global challenges

By February 11, 2015March 17th, 2015No Comments

Author(s): Scott P. Carroll, Peter Søgaard Jørgensen, Michael T. Kinnison, Carl T. Bergstrom, R. Ford Denison, Peter Gluckman, Thomas B. Smith, Sharon Y. Strauss, Bruce E. Tabashnik

Publication: Sciencexpress

Publication Date: 2014

Abstract: Two categories of evolutionary challenges result from escalating human impacts on the planet. The first arises from cancers, pathogens and pests that evolve too quickly, and the second from the inability of many valued species to adapt quickly enough. Applied evolutionary biology provides a suite of strategies to address these global challenges that threaten human health, food security, and biodiversity. This review highlights both progress and gaps in genetic, developmental and environmental manipulations across the life sciences that either target the rate and direction of evolution, or reduce the mismatch between organisms and human-altered environments. Increased development and application of these underused tools will be vital in meeting current and future targets for sustainable development.

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