Monday, November 19, 2007

Lucky Genes


A gene specific to black cats that enables their dark coloring may also help them ward off disease. Researchers think our version of this gene may help humans in the same way, if given a boost. This article from the British Broadcasting Company (BBC), explains that the primary function of the gene, part of a family called 7-transmembrane receptors, is to regulate what is allowed through the cell membrane. (This theory was also mentioned in the previous blog entry, Play it Again Tom.) Read the entire BBC article here.

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