Unpacking the Complexity of Human DNA

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Chimpanzees and humans share approximately 99% of their DNA, suggesting that the differences in the remaining 1% are significant in defining human traits. The discussion highlights that the simplistic view of genes having fixed functions is outdated; instead, genes can produce various protein products and function within complex regulatory networks. This complexity in gene expression plays a crucial role in differentiating species. Additionally, the presence of about 2% Neanderthal DNA in modern humans raises questions about genetic contributions from extinct relatives and their impact on human evolution. Understanding these genetic nuances is essential for comprehending the distinct characteristics that separate humans from other primates.
moriah
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Supposedly, chimpanzees and humans share 99% of DNA. Does this mean that it is 1% of our DNA that delineates us from them? Also, how does this figure with the 2% of neanderthal DNA that most humans today have?
What is in our DNA that separates us from other primates?
 
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moriah said:
Summary:: Supposedly, chimpanzees and humans share 99% of DNA. Does this mean that it is 1% of our DNA that delineates us from them? Also, how does this figure with the 2% of neanderthal DNA that most humans today have?

What is in our DNA that separates us from other primates?
You should google both of those factoids/questions to start. The numbers should be more precise. And your main question is pretty vague. I mean, you can see a lot of the similar and different traits, right?
 
I think the idea that each gene has a predictable and discrete function is a bit dated now, finding the same genes in different species doesn't necessarily mean they are doing the same thing. Many genes are capable of producing a number of protein products and operate in a regulatory network, It's how and when genes are expressed that produce the genotype. Genes provide information on relatedness but relatively small differences can lead to quite marked differences.
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmolb.2018.00020/full
 
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