Exploring the Mysteries of 'Junk' DNA

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In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of "junk DNA" in the human genome, which makes up over 97% of genes. While it was previously believed to have no purpose, it is now known to have regulatory functions, contain remnants of failed viruses, and potentially serve as a source for new genes. There are also hopes for discovering patterns in this DNA. It has been found to encode for functional RNA and play a role in gene translocation, and is now considered essential to life.
  • #1
GiZeHy
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junk DNA?

hi
over 97% of genes in the human genome are called 'junk dna'. what do you think is the junk dna for? ( beside regulatory functions, accumulated DNA of failed viruses, reservoire from which potentially advantageous new genes can emerge,... )
please give me your assumptions, worries, hopes, wildest dreams about that one...
i want to see bloody fingertips ;)
 
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  • #2
the "remnant DNA"? I was meaning to ask same question for a few days now, what a de ja vu

oh and I hope there are some 'patterns' in it too.. it sure is a wild thing to have discovered.. and anybody who doubts it is a damned fool
 
  • #3
some of this DNA has since been found to encode for functional RNA (siRNA, antisense, etc.). other regions are actively involved in translocation of genes. other regions are thought to merely add stability to the chromosome.

the mystery is slowly being unravelled. but nonetheless, no one calls it "junk" dna anymore since it has been found to be essential to life - cutting out regions of junk DNA will often kill an organism.
 

What is 'junk' DNA?

'Junk' DNA refers to the portions of a genome that do not code for proteins or have a known function. This was previously thought to be non-functional or 'junk' DNA, but recent research has shown that it may have important regulatory functions.

Why is it important to explore 'junk' DNA?

Studying 'junk' DNA can provide insights into the evolution of different species and can potentially help us understand the underlying genetic causes of diseases. It may also reveal new functions and roles for these non-coding regions.

How much of our DNA is considered 'junk'?

It is estimated that about 98% of our DNA is non-coding or 'junk' DNA. This means that only a small portion of our genome is actually involved in coding for proteins.

What techniques are used to study 'junk' DNA?

Scientists use a variety of techniques, such as DNA sequencing, gene expression analysis, and CRISPR gene editing, to study 'junk' DNA. These methods allow researchers to identify and manipulate specific regions of non-coding DNA to better understand their function.

What have we learned from studying 'junk' DNA?

Through studying 'junk' DNA, we have discovered that it plays important roles in gene regulation, embryonic development, and adaptation to environmental changes. It has also been linked to various diseases and disorders, providing potential targets for future treatments.

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