Our ancient past isn't always buried history. When it comes to our DNA, nearly 9% of the human genome is made up of leftover genetic material from ancient viruses (called endogenous retroviruses or ERVs) that infected our ancestors millions of years ago and became permanently integrated into our genetic code. In a new study published in the journal Nature, scientists have demonstrated that one piece of this viral junk is essential for the earlie…
Some genes that regulate fundamental cellular processes, such as cell growth and metabolism, are intertwined with viral DNA: the remnants of ancient viruses are central to our development from the embryonic stage, according to a new study.