Contrary to earlier belief, a substantial amount of our DNA is made of ancient virus. Earlier, scientists suspected that a small amount of our DNA is contributed by viruses but this study came as a surprise to all. Therefore, our DNA is far less “human” than previously thought.

Scientists discovered at least 19 new pieces of non-human DNA contributed by viruses when it infected our ancestors initially, hundreds of thousands of years ago. And one portion of newfound DNA which is present in 50 out of 25000 people tested, contains an entire virus in its full genetic form! If the virus can replicate itself in that form is not yet known. But, other studies did indicate that it can affect the person who carries it.
In addition to the above, scientists also confirmed the presence of 17 more pieces of virus DNA in human genomes.

“This research provides important information necessary for understanding how retroviruses and humans have evolved together in relatively recent times,” informed John Coffin who hails from Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, US. The study also confirms that about 8% of our DNA is made of virus fragments.

This research evaluated the entire span of DNA (genome) from people from all around the world, including Africa — where human ancestors are believed to be originated from. They then migrated around the world. The research team used very sophisticated tool to evaluate and compare each person’s genome to the “reference” human genome.

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Author: Technology and Beyond