Friday, April 24, 2015

Evolution of Ancient Viruses

 
    Research conducted at Stanford University by Doctor Joanna Wysocka, a developmental biologist suggest that ancient viruses are significantly acting on the development of human embryos. The main retrovirus tracked is called HERV-K1. This virus is made by embryonic cells only during the time prior to implantation on the wall of the uterus. The body responds with an immune defense when these new viral genes are present. Thus, the embryonic cell produces surface proteins to prevent additional viruses.

    Experiments were conducted to expose the HERV-K behavior. Scientist found the cells that contained this virus were able to better resist other dangerous viruses' such as influenza virus. In the opinion of Doctor Wysocka these viruses could be fluctuating the proteins throughout vital period of development. Another scientist, from Stephen Goff of Columbia University, recognizes the adaption to ancient viruses further explains the evolution of the human genome.

    It is nothing shy from incredible that our bodies can accept a virus and utilize in in as advantage. It is especially impressive that these retroviruses compose 8 percent of the human genome.  Unfortunately, the writer of this article appears to be presenting the fact this is only a suggestion of how our DNA reacts to ancient viruses. Therefore, the findings are still being discussed and further researched.

The scientific paper can be located in Nature magazine here.

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