Mushroom Virsuses! Who Knew?

DNA changes in several ways. Most often we will think of mutation (if we think about DNA change at all. However there are some other ways DNA can change. Some viruses can insert their own genes, and scientists can genetically alter DNA or bio-engineer the genome.

Scientists at SUNY Buffalo have found evidence of another mechanism used to change DNA. Some viruses "borrow" the machinery from other viruses. What is surprising about this is that the infected cells then used the new DNA to make useful proteins.

If you have a strong opinion about genetic engineering, does knowing this occurs in nature influence what you think? These viruses are using these techniques to their own advantage.

Chickenpox and Herpes viruses insert their genes into human cells. If you have been infected by either one do you consider yourself genetically altered?

Click here to read the original research article.

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