- Dec 30, 2001
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Excerpt:
Apparently bits of old virus RNA sits dormant in the human genome. These scientists collected the bits, homogenized them into a general genome sequence and created a virus incorporating all the bits.
The scientists insist steps were taken to weaken the ability of the virus,but if there's one thing we have learned from studying infectious diseases is that a virus can mutate(HIV anyone?).
Excerpt:
In a controversial study, researchers have resurrected a retrovirus that infected our ancestors millions of years ago and now sits frozen in the human genome. Published online by Genome Research this week, the study may shed new light on the history of these genomic intruders, as well as their role in tumors. Although this particular virus, dubbed Phoenix, is a wimpy one, some argue that resuscitating any ancient virus is inherently risky and that the study should have undergone stricter reviews.
Apparently bits of old virus RNA sits dormant in the human genome. These scientists collected the bits, homogenized them into a general genome sequence and created a virus incorporating all the bits.
The scientists insist steps were taken to weaken the ability of the virus,but if there's one thing we have learned from studying infectious diseases is that a virus can mutate(HIV anyone?).