All articles tagged with #genome stability
Research shows that bowhead whales have enhanced DNA repair mechanisms, particularly in double-strand break repair, and high levels of the protein CIRBP, which contribute to their exceptional lifespan and cancer resistance despite their large size and long life. These findings suggest that improved genome maintenance, rather than increased apoptosis, underpins their longevity and resistance to age-related diseases.
New research from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center reveals that chronic activation of the innate immune system, particularly due to issues in the Mre11 complex, can lead to genome instability and cancer development. This discovery highlights the dual role of the innate immune system in both defending against pathogens and maintaining genome stability. The findings suggest that targeting the immune pathways involved could offer new therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.
New research has revealed that transposons, also known as "selfish genes," play important and unexpected roles in biological processes. These jumping genes, which can move within the genome and generate new copies of themselves, make up over 45% of the human genome. While most transposon copies are inactive, a hundred copies belonging to the LINE family are potentially active and contribute to genetic processes. Studies have shown that transposons are essential for the development of the cerebral cortex, embryonic development, and gene regulation. These findings open up new avenues for research and potential treatments for neurodevelopmental and aging-related disorders.