Scientists Discover a Brain Gene that Can Jump Through DNA

Topic: Biology

Researchers at Cornell University found a human gene called BC200 that can move around the genome and help with brain function. This gene is special because it has a 'mobile past' and can insert itself into new places in the DNA.

Scientists have discovered a human gene called BC200 that can jump through DNA. This gene was found by researchers at Cornell University, who were studying a type of virus called poxvirus.

The team led by Cedric Feschotte analyzed the genetic material inside the poxvirus and found that it contained a piece of human DNA called BC200. They discovered that BC200 is not only associated with brain function but also behaves like a 'jumping gene', meaning it can move and insert itself into genomes.

BC200 has a long evolutionary history, dating back millions of years to a time when it was a transposon, or a non-coding genetic element capable of relocating itself. Transposons are often thought of as 'junk DNA' because they can sometimes be harmful by inserting stretches of DNA into genes and interfering with normal function.

However, over evolutionary timescales, transposons can also be useful. They can help regulate existing genes or contribute genetic material that eventually becomes part of new and beneficial genes. About half of the human genome is made up of transposon-derived DNA.

The researchers found that BC200 was itself created from a mobile element but has retained its mobility and yet it is also clearly serving a cellular function. This means that evolution hasn't been able to 'untangle' the two things, making BC200 a rare example of a gene with both stable function and persistent mobilization.

The team now wants to investigate whether the molluscum contagiosum virus uses BC200 to manipulate human host cells for its own benefit. They are also interested in learning more about BC200's connection to diseases such as breast cancer and other tumors, where the gene is abnormally expressed.

Why It Matters

This discovery can help us understand how genes move around in our DNA and how they contribute to brain function. It may also have implications for our understanding of diseases such as Alzheimer's and cancer.

Key Facts

• BC200 is a human gene that can jump through DNA and help with brain function.
• The gene was discovered by researchers at Cornell University in a type of virus called poxvirus.
• BC200 has a long evolutionary history, dating back millions of years to a time when it was a transposon.
• About half of the human genome is made up of transposon-derived DNA.
• The researchers found that BC200 is abnormally expressed in some tumors and appears at elevated levels in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease.

Key Terms

Transposon

A non-coding genetic element capable of relocating itself and inserting into new places in a genome.

Germline retrotransposition

The process by which a gene is copied and inserted into the DNA of germ cells, such as sperm or eggs.

Implications

This discovery can help us understand how genes move around in our DNA and how they contribute to brain function. It may also have implications for our understanding of diseases such as Alzheimer's and cancer.