J. A. Goodheart

Similar enzymatic functions in distinct bioluminescence systems: Evolutionary recruitment of sulfotransferases in ostracod light organs

The paper shows sulfotransferases in ostracod light organs independently evolved to sulfonate luciferin, highlighting convergent evolution of similar enzymatic functions across distantly related species.

Spatial-temporal expression analysis of lineage-restricted shell matrix proteins reveals shell field regionalization and distinct cell populations in the slipper snail Crepidula atrasolea

The paper analyzes lineage-restricted shell matrix proteins in two slipper snail species to identify spatial-temporal expression patterns and distinct cell populations in the shell field.

A phylogenomic approach to resolving interrelationships of polyclad flatworms, with implications for life history evolution

This study uses transcriptomic data to build a phylogeny of polyclad flatworms, revealing new insights into larval development and evolutionary history.

Precocious sperm exchange in the simultaneously hermaphroditic nudibranch, Berghia stephanieae

This study examines sperm exchange and reproductive timing in Berghia stephanieae, finding that sperm exchange occurs before egg-laying and male gonads become functional at smaller sizes than female functions.

Sexual signals persist over deep time: ancient co-option of bioluminescence for courtship displays in cypridinid ostracods

The paper estimates the longevity of bioluminescent courtship in cypridinid ostracods, finding it persisted for over 151 million years, suggesting sexual selection may reduce extinction risk.

Transcriptomics provides a robust framework for the relationships of the major clades of cladobranch sea slugs (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Heterobranchia), but fails to resolve the position of the enigmatic genus Embletonia

The paper uses transcriptome data to analyze the phylogenetic relationships of cladobranch sea slugs, finding robust relationships among major clades but unresolved placement of Embletonia.