Quote:
Originally Posted by Michaelangelica
More epigenetics, or something else going on?
This process must speed up genetic changes but should't there be more genetically damaged (or exceptional) people?
|
This is a really interesting development, MA. Your point is valid, but since the retrotransposon activity is embryonic, it also suggests that genetic changes that would result in death of a fertilized ovum now will only result in death of an early embryo cell. Essentially, it raises the probability of embryonic survival, and increases the probability off a functional cell mosaic (whether good or bad).
Really interesting. Also, I never saw the numbers (noted in the summary) that L1 retrotransposons are 17% of the human genome. This is roughly six times the portion that transcribes proteins.
Bio
----------------
Few problems are so complex that they cannot be substantially clarified by one more cup of coffee
(or a nice cabernet if it is after 5:00)
Moderator in absentia. Return anticipated. Timing somewhat vague.
