The next step according to geneticist Hopi Hoekstra is to run tests to see whether the giraffe gene variants produce the physical differences that the researchers predict. Until the scientists inspect the non-protein coding regions of the giraffe, they are still far away from discovering what makes a giraffe a giraffe. However, this study needs to be completed soon since the numbers of giraffes are decreasing dramatically. The population of giraffes in Africa have declined 40% since 2000.
I really liked this article! When I was on my senior trip to Disney World in high school, I went on the safari ride at Animal Kingdom and the tour guide told us that the giraffe and okapi were closely related and I had a hard time understanding how due to their physical features. However, with the help of genetics and this study, I learned more about the genetic mysteries and differences between the giraffe and okapi. I also found it astonishing that there is a mutation in the genes of giraffes that causes defects to humans bones as well as cardiovascular system. I really hope that the number of giraffes in the world stop decreasing for the sake of this experiment to continue as well as the fact that they are such an amazing and beautiful creature.
That is really remarkable that about half of the 70 genes that differ from okapi and giraffe regulate growth and development. That seems like a lot of genes just for growth, but then again look at the giraffe! I agree that research has to be done soon since the giraffe population is depleting at an alarming rate. Hopefully this research can also help the giraffes with increasing their population.
ReplyDeleteFascinating article! It is amazing to think that one of the mutations of the genes causes defects in other species like humans and mice regarding bone growth and cardiovascular health. Part of this article reminded me of the "Animal Inside Out" exhibit at the Franklin Institute Museum and I vividly remember that there are only seven cervical vertebrae, equivalent to humans, despite the giraffes' long necks. It just goes to show the similarities and differences between species.
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