Tag: endogenous retroviruses
-
Ancient Viral DNA as a Key to Our First Moments of Life
Uncovering a Hidden Architect of Early Life Fragments of ancient viral DNA may have played an outsized role in the earliest stages of human life. In a study that blends evolution, virology and developmental biology, researchers have shown that remnants of endogenous retroviruses in our genome—specifically a group called LTR5Hs—can act as regulatory switches essential…
-
An Ancient Infection May Shape Our First Moments of Life
Ancient Viral Remnants as Architects of Early Life Fragments of DNA from viruses that invaded our distant ancestors may be more than leftovers from a prehistoric battle. New research suggests these endogenous viral elements, particularly a group called LTR5Hs, act as firestarters for human development during the earliest moments after fertilization. Stanford biologist Raquel Fueyo…