'Junk DNA' Plays Crucial Role in Embryonic Development

Discovery of the role of MuERV-L endogenous retroviruses could open new avenues in regenerative medicine and the creation of artificial embryos.

Scientists have discovered that 'junk DNA', previously thought to be useless, plays a crucial role in embryonic development.
The 'junk DNA' in question is called MuERV-L endogenous retroviruses, which interacts with a gene called URI to influence embryonic development.
URI, also known as unconventional prefoldin RPB5 interactor, ensures proteins in our cells fold correctly and don't clump together.
MERVL endogenous retroviruses are active when a fertilized egg divides into a two-celled embryo, helping to drive genes related to totipotency.
Understanding this process could open up possibilities in regenerative medicine and the creation of artificial embryos.