Mammalian Genomes

The mouse genome was the second mammalian genome sequence completed after the human genome. Approximately 4/5ths of genes they share in common, and studying these common genes in mice is of importance in treating human disease. This new research has effectivaley identified the remaining 1/5th of genes occuring in mice only, yielding information on how mammalian biologys differ from a genetic context.

"In retrospect, our previous picture of the mouse genome was incomplete. Only when all the missing pieces of the genomic puzzle had been filled in did we realize that we had been missing large numbers of genes found only in mice, and not in humans," says Dr. Leo Goodstadt from the MRC Functional Genomics Unit.

The new research allows conserved sequences to be overlayed between mice and humans, leaving the remaining genes in each genome species specific. Thus is of importance in evolutionary genetics. By comparing more distantly phylogenetically related organisms genomes, highly conserved genes can be identified, while genes specific to various taxa of life can also be attributed to the resultant diversity.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090526202722.htm

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