#junk-dna

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Inverse
7 months ago
OMG science

This Mysterious Bit of "Junk" DNA Could Play A Vital Role In Promoting Health

Scientists have discovered that junk DNA, previously thought to be useless, may play a crucial role in embryonic development.
A specific type of junk DNA called MERVL interacts with a gene called URI, which influences embryonic development in mice. [ more ]
Inverse
3 months ago
OMG science

Ancient Viruses Left Their DNA In Humans - And They Could Help Trigger These Common Diseases

8% of human DNA is ancient viral sequences, some impacting psychiatric disorders, challenging previous views of 'junk DNA'. HERVs regulate gene expression and produce functional molecules. [ more ]
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