In the nucleus of mouse stem cells, derepressed endoviral RNA molecules (purple) appear at the same spots as condensates containing RNA polymerase II (green), as this fluorescence microscopic image shows.
Ancient dormant sequences in the genome impact embryonic development in unexpected ways. In the nucleus of mouse stem cells, derepressed endoviral RNA molecules ( purple ) appear at the same spots as condensates containing RNA polymerase II ( green ), as this fluorescence microscopic image shows. Asimi et al. MPIMG - The mammalian genome contains retroviral sequences that are in an undead but mostly "harmless" state. An international research team recently discovered how some of these retroviral gene fragments affect embryonic cells if they are unleashed. Unexpectedly, not the viral proteins, but rather copies of the genetic material itself generate an imbalance in the cell. Over thousands of years of evolution, countless viruses have embedded themselves in our genome.
TO READ THIS ARTICLE, CREATE YOUR ACCOUNT
And extend your reading, free of charge and with no commitment.
Your Benefits
- Access to all content
- Receive newsmails for news and jobs
- Post ads
