The Zoonomia Project has made significant strides in understanding the human genome by identifying key regions that have remained stable over millions of years across 240 mammalian species. This research enhances our knowledge of disease susceptibility and unique mammalian characteristics, focusing on genomic data collected from various institutions, including the San Diego Wildlife Alliance. The project, led by Elinor Karlsson and Kerstin Lindblad-Toh, illustrates how comparative genomics can reveal functional parts of our genome, influencing health and disease.
Recent studies highlight that around 10% of the human genome is highly conserved, with significant implications for embryonic development and RNA regulation. The project has also linked genomic conservation to exceptional traits in mammals, such as enhanced brain size and hibernation abilities. Additionally, the researchers discovered that species with fewer genetic changes at conserved sites are more vulnerable to extinction.
By investigating conserved genomic regions, the team found connections to human diseases, including cancer, identifying mutations that could play causal roles. Overall, the Zoonomia Project promises to enrich our understanding of evolutionary biology, biodiversity conservation, and human health, encouraging further exploration in these fields.
