Parasites In The Genome? Molecular Parasite Could Play An Important Role In Human Evolution

Researchers have determined the structure of a protein which is encoded by a parasitic genetic element and which is responsible for its mobility. The so-called LINE-1 retrotransposon is a mobile genetic element that can multiply and insert itself into chromosomal DNA at many different locations. Researchers say that there would be very few human genes that have not been affected in the past by the integration of a LINE-1 or Alu element.

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