Author Sean B. Carroll mentions that there are about 500 genes common to all organisms. They have to do with the essential DNA machinery and so forth. What are these genes? Where can I read more about this fascinating concept? When you google immortal genes you get mentions of Sean B. Carroll. What term do others use for these genes?
"When we compare the genomes of Archaea, bacteria, fungi, plants, and animals, we find about 500 genes that exist in all domains of life... The functions of immortal genes are central... processes such as decoding DNA ... and making proteins. All forms of life have depended on these genes since the origin of complex DNA-encoded life early in Earth's history." (Making of the Fittest, pg 79)
No comments:
Post a Comment