Genes and the structure of organisms

Abstract

In 1826, when the Zoological Society was founded, genes had not been recognized, and the structure of living organisms was thought of mainly in philosophical or evolutionary terms. Since then the developmental origin of complex structures has attracted much interest, and this now seems likely to be largely explicable in molecular terms by the controlled activity of genes. Certain structures whose formation seems unlikely to be explained by direct gene action will be discussed. Examples will be given of the opportunities which now exist in laboratories to create novel genetic constitutions (and hence structures) which are unlikely to arise by natural processes.