Scientists discover a human brain gene that can jump through DNA
Monday, October 5, 2026Want headlines delivered to your inbox?
Subscribe to our free daily newsletter.
Scientists have discovered a human gene with a remarkable double life: it appears to play an important role in brain cells while still retaining the ability to jump around the genome. Called BC200, the gene evolved millions of years ago from a mobile piece of DNA known as a transposon, but unlike most genes that arose this way, it never lost its mobility. Researchers even found BC200 embedded inside a human poxvirus, suggesting it may have jumped from infected skin cells into the virus. (via Science Daily)
Read the Full StoryThis article will expire in 27 days.
In the News...
View All Recent News
- What happens in the brain when cannabis makes you anxious?
- A new way to fight gum disease without wiping out good bacteria
- A few drops of this Japanese tree oil may help you sleep more soundly
- MIT scientists find a hidden cancer risk of the keto diet
- One simple addition to postpartum care made a major difference
- Colorectal cancer is rising in young people and often found too late
- Scientists say this simple habit could strengthen your marriage
- Goodbye joint replacements? Stanford scientists found a way to regrow cartilage and stop arthritis
- Cancer-fighting t cells burn out. Scientists may have found a fix
- Scientists just found a way to fight lung cancer and muscle wasting at the same time
- Scientists discover a human brain gene that can jump through DNA
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation Could Help New Skills Stick
- Scientists reveal what seven days of fasting does to the human body
- The “glue” holding your cells together has a surprising second job
- Easing constipation: A 20-minute walk can get your gut moving almost immediately
- Vitamin D drug may help crack pancreatic cancer’s protective shield
- This common vitamin could help fight one of the deadliest brain cancers
- Your gut bacteria may reveal how fast your brain is aging
- Diet drinks work as well as water for weight loss, major trial finds
- This protective enzyme could help stop fatty liver disease from getting worse