Exaptation of an ancient Alu short interspersed element provides a highly conserved vitamin D-mediated innate immune response in humans and primates

Abstract excerpt

BACKGROUND: About 45% of the human genome is comprised of mobile transposable elements or "junk DNA". The exaptation or co-option of these elements to provide important cellular functions is hypothesized to have played a powerful force in evolution; however, proven examples are rare. An ancient primate-specific Alu short interspersed element (SINE) put the human CAMP gene under the regulation of the vitamin D...

Topics

Share this publication in a Topic to start or enrich a Post.

• Share to Bone Metabolism and Diseases
• Share to Immunodeficiency and Autoimmune Disorders
• Share to Vitamin D Research Studies