All Articles Tagged As: horizontal gene transfer
When ancient retroviruses slipped bits of their DNA into the primate genome millions of years ago, they successfully preserved their own genetic legacy. Today an estimated 8 percent of the human genetic code consists of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs)--the DNA remnants from these so-called 'selfish parasites.'
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Study finds biological complexity arises from self-organizing structure of genes
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 | Bacteria that cause tumours in plants modify plant genomes by skilfully exploiting the plants' first line of defence. ...> Full Article |
 | It is better to be looked over than overlooked, Mae West supposedly said. These are words of wisdom for genome data-miners of today. Data that goes unnoticed, despite its widespread availability, can reveal extraordinary insights to the discerning eye. ...> Full Article |
 | Bacterial to animal gene transfers shown to be widespread, with implications for evolution and control of diseases and pests ...> Full Article |
Could the food we eat be contributing to the continuing rise of antibiotic-resistant infections? Harmless and even beneficial bacteria that exist in our food supply may also be carrying genes that code for antibiotic resistance. Once in our bodies, could they transmit the resistance genes to disease-causing bacteria?
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 | Prominent evidence of selenium use by microbes may force new ideas of element's
role in planetary processes such as carbon cycling and photosynthesis ...> Full Article |
 | Marmosets, small monkeys that live in the forests of Central and South America, are usually born as twins. Their early development is quite interesting. Through the exchange of embryonic stem cells in the womb, they become genetic “chimeras,” which means they carry genes of their brother or sister in their own tissues. ...> Full Article |
Two new studies by University of California, Berkeley, scientists highlight the amazing promiscuity of genes, which appear to shuttle frequently between organisms, especially more primitive organisms, and often in packs.
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Darwin’s theory of natural selection is considered by most scientists to be correct, the mechanism that allows it to occur has been hard to nail down though. Many scientists have claimed that it is the accumulation of minor genetic mutations over time. As new traits are developed they will be passed on only if the trait gives the bearer some advantage. The inverse of this is also true, in that if an organism inherits a trait like a disease, then they may not be around long enough to pass on the trait.
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Researchers at Rice University have created a mathematical model that argues that evolution doesn't proceed solely through breeding and genetic mutations. The theory suggests that organisms also swap large sections of DNA.
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