Hidden Genes: A New Frontier in Genetics

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Hidden Genes: A New Frontier in Genetics

Context:

A new study by Columbia researchers reveals that bacteria can create free-floating and temporary genes, suggesting that similar genes might exist outside our genome.

 

More on News:

The research reveals that bacteria can create genes that do not reside in their chromosomal DNA. Instead, these genes exist as free-floating entities, adding a new dimension to our understanding of genetic regulation and functionality.

 

New Insights into Bacterial Genetics 

  • Genetic code was first deciphered in the 1960s, scientists have operated under the assumption that the chromosome contains the complete set of instructions for cellular functions.
  • This linear model, which equates genes to fixed sequences within our genomes, was thought to apply universally across life forms, from bacteria to humans. However, a recent study challenges this notion.

 

Key Highlights:

  • The study focused on a bacterial defence system that involves an unusual mechanism: a piece of RNA and a reverse transcriptase enzyme
  • Unlike typical bacterial defence systems that degrade viral DNA, this system synthesises DNA from an RNA template—a process previously considered unconventional.
  • They developed a novel technique to identify DNA produced by the reverse transcriptase
  • Results showed that the DNA was long and repetitive, containing multiple copies of a short sequence from the RNA molecule.
  • The RNA folds into a loop, and the reverse transcriptase creates repetitive DNA by travelling repeatedly around this loop. 
  • This gene codes for a protein named Neo, which plays a critical role in the bacterial antiviral defence system
  • When a virus infects a bacterium, the Neo protein prevents viral replication and protects neighbouring cells.

 

Implications for Human Genetics: 

  • Similar free-floating genes might exist in humans and other higher organisms. If confirmed, this would represent a major shift in our understanding of gene location and function.
  • These extrachromosomal genes could be present only in specific environments or developmental contexts, providing essential information for normal physiological processes.

 

Future Directions and Applications:

  • Reverse transcriptases are already used in gene editing technologies, such as CRISPR, which have seen clinical trials for conditions like sickle cell disease.
  • The new reverse transcriptase produces the Neo protein, and may offer improved options for genome editing and gene therapy.
  • The researchers believe that bacteria may harbour a wealth of reverse transcriptases with unique properties that could lead to innovative biotechnological applications once their functions are fully understood.

 

Hidden Genes: A New Frontier in Genetics

 

Genetic code

  • It refers to the instructions contained in a gene that tells a cell how to make a specific protein. 
  • Each gene’s code uses the four nucleotide bases of DNA: adenine (A), cytosine (C), guanine (G) and thymine (T) — in various ways to spell out three-letter “codons” that specify which amino acid is needed at each position within a protein.
  • There are 64 possible permutations, or combinations, of three-letter nucleotide sequences that can be made from the four nucleotides.
  • Of these 64 codons, 61 represent amino acids, and three are stop signals. 
  • Each codon is specific for only one amino acid (or one-stop signal).
  • It is described as degenerate, or redundant, because a single amino acid may be coded for by more than one codon.

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