A groundbreaking study has revealed that nearly half of the human genome is made up of “junk” DNA, which was once considered non-functional but now plays a crucial role in controlling gene activity. Researchers from Japan, China, Canada, and the US have found that this “junk” DNA comes from transposable elements, which act as genetic switches to regulate specific cell types.
The study also uncovered a surprising connection between ancient viruses and human DNA, revealing that 8% of our genome originated from these viral infections millions of years ago. This discovery provides new insights into the evolutionary history of viral DNA and suggests that overlooked viral sequences may have important regulatory functions in gene expression.
According to Dr. Guillaume Bourque, one of the study’s lead authors, the research holds promise for understanding the complex relationships between our DNA, health, and disease. “If we can clearly map what parts of our genome are specific to humans or primates, and what parts came from viruses, we’re one step closer to understanding what makes us human,” he said.
The study’s findings have significant implications for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and rare diseases, which are often linked to genetic mutations. By gaining a deeper understanding of the human genome and its hidden code, researchers can develop new approaches to tracing the evolutionary history of viral DNA and uncovering the secrets of our unique genetic makeup.
Source: https://www.scrippsnews.com/science-and-tech/ancient-junk-dna-revealed-as-key-players-in-human-genome-regulation