Mutation has long been understood as a random force in evolution. But what if we've had it wrong all along? In today's intriguing episode, we're joined by renowned evolutionary biologists Dr. Weigel and Dr. Monroe to challenge this long-held notion.

Journey into the microscopic world of the plant Arabidopsis thaliana, a model organism in plant genetics, as our guests unveil their groundbreaking research findings. The revelations are startling: mutations occur far less frequently in vital parts of the genome than we've believed. Delve into the extensive datasets, surveys, and experiments that led to this conclusion.

But this isn't just a tale of numbers and plants. Dr. Weigel and Dr. Monroe weave a compelling narrative that challenges a century-old evolutionary paradigm, showcasing how mutation is not as aimless a force as once thought. Their research indicates that epigenome-associated mutation biases could play a significant role in guiding evolution, painting a fresh picture of how mutations might occur in nature.

Through their findings, they shed light on why certain genes might exhibit fewer variations and how environmental factors could further influence these mutations. As we explore this intricate dance of genetic changes, we're also prompted to consider how these revelations might apply beyond the world of Arabidopsis.

Prepare to have your understanding of evolution upended and redefined as we navigate the complex terrain of mutation bias. Whether you're an evolutionary aficionado or a casual science enthusiast, this episode promises insights and perspectives that could reshape biological evolution's narrative. Join us for a deep dive into the evolving story of mutation with Dr. Weigel and Dr. Monroe.

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-021-04269-6