Neuroscience & Psychology

“Junk DNA” Plays Key Role in Brain Development and Disease

▪️A new study shows that repetitive DNA, once dismissed as “junk,” plays a critical role in shaping the human brain. Scientists found that LINE-1 transposons, a type of mobile DNA element, are active in stem cells and regulate key genes during early brain development.

When these sequences were switched off, brain organoids grew abnormally, suggesting their influence on both evolution and disease. The findings reveal that hidden parts of the genome could be central to understanding conditions like Parkinson’s and neurodevelopmental disorders.

🆔@neurocognitionandlearning

www.tgoop.com/neurocognitionandlearning/5517

273 viewsedited  Sep 2 at 10:44

“Junk DNA” Plays Key Role in Brain Development and Disease

▪️A new study shows that repetitive DNA, once dismissed as “junk,” plays a critical role in shaping the human brain. Scientists found that LINE-1 transposons, a type of mobile DNA element, are active in stem cells and regulate key genes during early brain development.

When these sequences were switched off, brain organoids grew abnormally, suggesting their influence on both evolution and disease. The findings reveal that hidden parts of the genome could be central to understanding conditions like Parkinson’s and neurodevelopmental disorders.

🆔@neurocognitionandlearning

BY Neuroscience & Psychology