Protein structures are not inherently robust, but natural proteins are substantially more robust than random sequences, representing a clear signature of adaptation. Mutational robustness is relatively low in newborn and viral proteins, and provides a new perspective on protein evolution.

RNA structures are inherently evolvable and robust to mutations: random RNA molecules already show the same level of robustness and a similar distribution of secondary structures as natural RNA molecules. Hence, it is difficult to detect signatures of selection on the distribution of RNA structures.

Great to see so many people at our symposium om the origin of eukaryotes. Thanks to all the speakers! #ESEB25 @julianvosseberg.bsky.social

Interactive symbiosis in silico (back) and in vivo (front). #ESEB25

#ESEB2025 Exciting symposium alert: (S50) Unravelling the origin of eukaryotes. 🦑🌴 With speakers Purificación López-García and Mark Field. We are looking forward to your abstract submissions! eseb2025.com/list-of-symp... @julianvosseberg.bsky.social