You can hold on to your butts thanks to DNA that evolved in fish

The article discusses the evolution of digits in humans and other vertebrates, linking it to the gene activity required for the development of a cloaca in fish. Researchers have discovered that the genes involved in the formation of digits, such as fingers and toes, were originally associated with the development of a cloaca, a single opening for the digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems found in fish and other animals. The study suggests that the genetic mechanisms responsible for digit formation evolved from the genetic pathways required for the formation of the cloaca. This evolutionary connection highlights the shared developmental origins of seemingly disparate anatomical features, demonstrating how complex structures can arise from the repurposing of existing genetic programs. The findings provide insights into the evolutionary processes that have shaped the diversity of vertebrate body plans, offering a deeper understanding of the underlying genetic mechanisms that give rise to the unique features of different species, including the human hand and foot.