Ancient viral DNA appears connected to some psychiatric conditions
Our DNA is a puzzle resulting from millions of years of evolution. An ancient part of it is composed from the genetic material of viruses that integrated in our genome and became part of “us.” Though it may seem strange, about 7% of our genomes are comprised by these old viral sequences. What’s more, recent research indicates that some of these ancient viral DNA may be involved in increased susceptibility to certain psychiatric conditions, such as depression, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
How did this viral DNA get stuck into our genome? retroviruses are viruses that insert their genetic material into the DNA of their host cells. This process occurred many times during our evolution, but only those times when the viruses inserted their DNA into reproductive cells (sperm or eggs), the genetic material from these retroviruses was further transmitted over generations, up to the present day.
Interesting? Read the rest of the article at MappingIgnorance.org
