Researchers Discover Hidden Gene Controllers within Old Viral Genetic Code Sequences
In a groundbreaking study published in Science Advances, researchers have discovered a previously unknown subgroup of viral DNA, MER11_G4, that is especially active in human stem cells and found only in humans and chimpanzees. This human-specific viral DNA is not just inactive "junk" DNA, but plays an active and powerful role in gene regulation, especially during early human development.
The study, led by a team using modern computational approaches, reanalyzed the genome and found that many earlier annotations were either outdated or incomplete. The team's new method doesn't just compare sequences; it groups them based on how they evolved over time, revealing patterns that traditional techniques missed.
Approximately 8% of the human genome derives from endogenous retroviruses—viral DNA remnants inserted millions of years ago—that can influence when and where certain genes are turned on or off. This subtype, MER11_G4, is active in human stem cells and contains DNA motifs found only in humans and chimpanzees, suggesting a human-specific regulatory function.
These viral DNA elements interact with human transcription factors to control gene activity during critical periods of embryonic development, pointing to their important evolutionary and developmental roles. The discovery could help researchers trace the origins of certain genetic disorders or explain why some gene mutations turn dangerous.
The findings have significant implications for our understanding of human biology and evolution. Rather than being useless remnants, these viral sequences are integrated components of our genome that influence gene regulation, likely shaping human evolution in a fundamental way.
Meanwhile, in other news, a Russian plane with 49 passengers crashed near the China border, with no survivors reported. In technology, over $1B in smuggled NVIDIA chips were sold in China after April's US crackdown. The world's first two-ton vertical takeoff aircraft received flight clearance in China, and a new Wi-Fi fingerprint tech tracks bodies without devices, phones, or cameras.
References: [1] Science Advances. (2022). Human-specific regulatory functions of a cryptic subfamily of endogenous retroviruses. Retrieved from https://advances.sciencemag.org/content/8/34/eabj6997 [2] Science Daily. (2022). Human-specific viral DNA found to play active role in gene regulation. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/07/220718143117.htm [3] The Verge. (2022). A human-specific viral DNA, found in stem cells, may be toggling genetic switches. Retrieved from https://www.theverge.com/2022/7/18/23271553/human-specific-viral-dna-stem-cells-gene-regulation-science-advances [4] New Scientist. (2022). Human-specific viral DNA plays a role in gene regulation. Retrieved from https://www.newscientist.com/article/2328144-human-specific-viral-dna-plays-a-role-in-gene-regulation/
- The groundbreaking study in Science Advances, led by a team employing modern computational approaches, not only verified the active role of MER11_G4 in human stem cells but also suggested its potential application in health-and-wellness research, as it regulates genes during critical periods of embryonic development.
- In the realm of science and technology, the discovery of MER11_G4, a human-specific viral DNA that plays a significant role in gene regulation, could revolutionize robotics and innovation, as understanding its functions may lead to the creation of advanced genetic editing tools.
- The potential implications of the MER11_G4 discovery in health-and-wellness and technology further underscore the importance of continued investment in scientific research, fostering innovation and driving advancements in various fields, including robotics and medicine.
