Scientist have discovered a unknown wellspring of genetic diversity in humans and other primates caused by jumping genes. They found a sequence of DNA that they call ORF0 that produces hundreds of these unknown proteins. When ORF0 is in abundance it is suggested that it pays an important role in evolutionary diversity. The discovery of these mobile protein factories may also help in understanding the origins of genetic mutations responsible for cancer, mental disorders and other diseases.
The scientist have focused on a class of jumping genes known as LINE-1 elements. These elements contain all necessary genetic machinery for moving themselves and other jumping genes to other places in the genome. The structure of LINE-1 elements possibly allows the ORF0 sequence to blend with the genetic sequence in new locations in DNA. This results in new gene sequences being new proteins.
The ORF0 gene was found in the primate genome and scientist plan to determine how many of the ORF0 sequences actually code for proteins and investigate what is the functions of the proteins.
They also plan to investigate the behavior of ORF0 in different cell types and diseases. They are focusing on exploring its role in cancers and in neurological disorders like schizophrenia, where previous studies have suggested jumping genes may be involved.
This article can e found here http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/10/151022124518.htm
This was the first I'd ever heard of jumping genes. Then again I was a chem major in undergrad.
ReplyDeletePretty cool!