Revolutionary genome catalog: New light on primates and humanity!

Revolutionary genome catalog: New light on primates and humanity!

An international research team in which the University of Hamburg is also involved has made groundbreaking progress in decrypting the genome of six primate species. Analyzed species include chimpanzee, bonobos, gorillas, borneo orangutans, sumatra orangutans and Siamangs. The results of this comprehensive study were published in the renowned journal Nature . The aim of research is to gain deeper insight into the evolution of the great apes and to create a solid basis for future genetic studies, such as uni-hamburg.de

The first sequence of human genome took place in 2001, and since then scientists have tried to further decipher the genomes of primates worldwide. However, previous studies had gaps in both completeness and in the selection of the analyzed species. Under the direction of Evan E. Eichler from Washington University, the current research team has closed these gaps and achieved genome sequences with a remarkably high accuracy of less than one error in 500,000 base pairs.

progress in genome sequencing

A total of 215 complete chromosomes were sequenced, whereby the contribution of the University of Hamburg concentrated in particular on immuns that are important for immune system proteins. The improved sequencing technologies and genetic novel analysis methods have enabled scientists to carry out this complete sequencing. The new data not only offer refined analyzes, but also more meaningful sources for evolutionary and genetic comparisons to learn more about the genetic relationship and species -specific characteristics.

Another interesting aspect of the new studies is that they provide information on why certain pathogens can easily skip from one host to another, especially from primate to humans. These findings are of great importance, since they can potentially contribute to the development of better vaccines and treatment strategies.

new genome catalog of the primates

In addition to the results of the research team in Hamburg, scientists worldwide decrypted the genomes of 809 monkeys from 233 different species. This is a remarkable progress because it covers almost half of all primate types and quadrupled the number of genoms available. The new genome catalog provides valuable information on the evolution of the primates and genetic causes of human diseases, such as the science portal Science.de

In particular, paviae are viewed as a promising model for the evolution of early human lines, since they have examples of crossings and flow between related species. An interesting discovery is that Paviane from West Tansania was the first non-human primate from three genetic forerunner lines. This complex genetic structure of the Pavian population has so far been unknown and opens up new perspectives for research.

The new genom catalog has also halved the number of unique human genomic variations assumed. A total of 4.3 million mutations were identified that could potentially cause human diseases. An innovative deep learning algorithm was used to distinguish harmless mutations from those that occur frequently in primates. This progress in genome research not only offers insights into the genetic diversity, but also in the resistance to environmental changes and diseases.