The Origins and Functions of De Novo Genes: Against All Odds?

De novo genes evolve from previously non-genic DNA. This strikes many of us as remarkable, because it seems extraordinarily unlikely that random sequence would produce a functional gene. How is this possible? In this two-part review, I first summarize what is known about the origins and molecular functions of the small number of de novo genes for which such information is available. I then speculate on what these examples may tell us about how de novo genes manage to emerge despite what seem like enormous opposing odds.

Automated summary

This review provides an overview of the origins and molecular functions of de novo genes, and speculates on how they manage to emerge despite opposing odds.