All articles tagged with #jumping genes
A study reveals that polar bears in southern Greenland are using 'jumping genes' to rapidly modify their DNA as a survival response to melting sea ice caused by climate change, though the threat to their survival remains significant.
Scientists have released the most detailed map of human genetic variation by sequencing over 1,000 genomes worldwide, revealing new insights into structural variants, repetitive DNA, and transposons, which could impact understanding of human health and disease. The studies also highlight technological advances that allow for more complete and accurate genome assemblies, including the first gapless human genome and detailed analysis of centromeres and jumping genes.
A recent study uncovers how the 'jumping gene' LINE-1 hijacks cell division processes by forming condensates with proteins to enter the nucleus and copy itself, providing insights into genome evolution and potential therapeutic targets.
Controlling "jumping genes" or transposable elements (TEs) through the Piwi-piRNA system could potentially increase lifespan, according to a study conducted on roundworms. TEs can introduce mutations into functional DNA regions, contributing to genomic instability and aging. By activating the Piwi-piRNA system and blocking TE activity, roundworms lived between one to four days longer. The study also revealed that TEs undergo epigenetic modifications as the worms age, which could potentially be used as a biological clock to determine age from DNA.
New research conducted on Caenorhabditis elegans worms has revealed that manipulating the Piwi-piRNA pathway, which controls the activity of jumping genes called transposable elements (TEs), can extend the lifespan of the worms. The study suggests that the movement of TEs within the DNA genome plays a role in the aging process. The researchers also observed an increase in TE activity as the worms aged, indicating a potential link between TE activity and cellular aging. These findings could lead to future interventions to slow down the aging process and improve health in humans.
Scientists studying gene activity data of the early human embryo have discovered a new type of cell that self-destructs within days of forming, as part of a quality control process to protect the developing fetus. These cells contain "jumping genes" that can cause DNA damage, and their descendants undergo programmed cell death. The researchers suggest that this process is a form of quality control, selecting the good cells and removing the damaged ones. The findings could help improve IVF or regenerative medicine treatments.