Why don't humans have tails? A genetic mutation offers clues
WASHINGTON (AP) — Our very ancient animal ancestors had tails. Why don’t we?
Somewhere around 20 million or 25 million years ago, when apes diverged from monkeys, our branch of the tree of life shed its tail. From Darwin’s time, scientists have wondered why — and how — this happened.
Now, researchers have identified at least one of the key genetic tweaks that led to this change.
“We found a single mutation in a very important gene,” said Bo Xia, a geneticist at the Broad Institute and co-author of a study published Wednesday in the journal Nature.
The researchers compared the genomes of six species of apes, including humans, and 15 species of monkeys with tails to pinpoint key differences between the groups. Once they identified a significant mutation, they tested their theory by using the gene-editing tool CRISPR to tweak the same spot in mouse embryos. Those mice were born without tails.
Related articles
Hollywood star Shia LaBeouf is spotted on the streets of Gavin and Stacey's hometown Barry
Hollywood star Shia LaBeouf has shocked onlookers after being spotted on the streets of Barry in Wal2024-05-21AP WAS THERE: Mexico's 1938 seizure of the oil sector from US companies
MEXICO CITY (AP) — EDITOR’S NOTE:Mexico took control of its most precious natural resource by seizin2024-05-21Faye Dunaway orders crew member off set for being in her eye line in newly
She is one of the most talented actresses in Hollywood - but has long been rumored to be one of the2024-05-21Severino finds his old form and takes a no
NEW YORK (AP) — After carrying a no-hitter into the eighth inning, Luis Severino was asked when he k2024-05-21- Cancer-stricken King Charles will be feeling fresh heartache after a former IRA commander confessed2024-05-21
Thiago Silva, 39, breaks down in tears as he announces he is leaving Chelsea
Thiago Silva will leave Chelsea when his contract expires at the end of the season but has said he i2024-05-21
atest comment