Shared Dna: Humans And Turtles, How Much?

how much dna do humans share with turtles

Humans and turtles share a significant amount of DNA. In fact, humans and giant tortoises share more than 90% of their DNA. A genome comparison found that humans and turtles share a common ancestor from 310 million years ago, which is why the basic organisation of the EDC genes is similar in both species. The study of genetics has allowed scientists to uncover the origins of life and trace the evolution of different species.

Characteristics Values
Percentage of DNA shared by humans and turtles 90%
Common ancestor 310 million years ago
Skin protection Similar proteins
Genome comparison Conducted by a working group led by molecular biologist Leopold Eckhart of the University Department of Dermatology at MedUni Vienna
Journal Molecular Biology and Evolution

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Humans and turtles share a common ancestor

Humans and turtles share a significant amount of DNA, with research suggesting that the two species share more than 90% of their DNA. This is because humans and turtles share a common ancestor, which scientists have estimated lived around 310 million years ago.

The common ancestor of humans and turtles has been discovered through genome comparison. Scientists have found that the basic organisation of the EDC (Epidermal Differentiation Complex) genes is similar in humans and turtles. EDC genes are responsible for the skin layers of the shell in turtles and the skin in humans. In turtles, these genes have developed to form proteins that harden the outer layer of skin and form a shell. In humans, EDC genes protect the skin from microbes and allergens.

The study of the human and turtle genome has revealed that evolutionarily related genes have a protective function in both species. This knowledge may lead to medical applications, such as improved treatments for psoriasis, which is caused by EDC gene mutations.

Furthermore, the analysis of the DNA of long-living turtle species, such as Lonesome George, the last member of Chelonoidis abingdonii, has revealed insights into the characteristics of these animals, including their resistance to cancer and ageing. Scientists have found that the same "good" genes can be found in both humans and turtles, but that turtles have more copies of these genes. Some of these genes are associated with successful ageing in humans and are involved in metabolism regulation, immune system modulation, mitochondrial functions, and cell communication.

The study of the genome of turtles and other reptiles can also help scientists better understand the evolution of different species and the relationships between them.

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Humans and turtles share over 90% of their DNA

The shared DNA between humans and turtles can be traced back to a common ancestor that lived around 310 million years ago. This ancestor was likely similar to modern reptiles, and the basic organisation of specific genes, known as the Epidermal Differentiation Complex (EDC) genes, has been preserved in both humans and turtles. These EDC genes are responsible for the protective function of the skin in both species, although they have evolved differently. In turtles, the EDC genes have evolved to form proteins that harden the outer layer of the skin and contribute to the formation of their distinctive shell. On the other hand, in humans, these genes protect the skin from microbes and allergens.

The study of turtle DNA has also provided insights into their remarkable longevity. Turtles are known for their slow ageing process and long life spans, with some species living for over a century. By analysing the genome of Lonesome George, a famous giant tortoise, scientists have identified genes associated with successful ageing, metabolism regulation, immune system modulation, mitochondrial functions, and cell communication. These findings offer valuable insights into the mechanisms that contribute to turtles' long lives, and potentially, their resistance to certain diseases like cancer.

Furthermore, the comparison of human and turtle DNA highlights the importance of gene duplication in evolutionary development. While humans and turtles share many of the same genes, the difference lies in the number of copies of certain genes. For example, some genes associated with ageing and cancer resistance in humans are present as single copies, while in turtles, these genes have duplicated, resulting in two or three copies. This gene duplication is believed to impact the function of the genes and may be a key factor in the exceptional longevity of turtles.

The high percentage of shared DNA between humans and turtles underscores the interconnectedness of life on Earth. Despite our physical differences, the biochemical and physiological processes that sustain life are remarkably similar across species. By studying these shared genetic sequences, scientists can gain a deeper understanding of the evolution of various traits and characteristics, as well as the biological processes that underlie them. This knowledge has the potential to lead to significant advancements in medicine and conservation efforts for endangered species.

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The human-turtle DNA difference may hold the key to longevity

Humans and turtles share a lot of their DNA—over 90% according to some estimates. This shared DNA is a result of a common ancestor that lived 310 million years ago. This ancestor was likely similar to modern reptiles.

Despite these similarities, there are some key differences in the DNA of humans and turtles that could hold the key to understanding longevity. One notable difference is the presence of duplicate genes in turtles, which are involved in metabolism regulation, immune system modulation, mitochondrial functions, and cell communication. These duplicate genes may contribute to the long lifespan of turtles, as they are associated with successful ageing in humans.

For instance, Lonesome George, a giant tortoise and the last member of Chelonoidis abingdonii, lived to be 100 years old, while his species could live up to 200 years. By analyzing the genetic sequences of Lonesome George and comparing them to humans, scientists have identified several variants in the tortoise genomes that potentially impact the hallmarks of ageing.

Turtles have evolved unique physiological adaptations, such as the ability to withstand oxygen deprivation and extreme temperatures. By studying the turtle genome, researchers have identified specific genes that are activated in low-oxygen conditions, which may have implications for treating conditions like heart attacks or strokes in humans.

Additionally, turtles have a very low rate of cancer despite their long lifespan. This is because they have evolved mechanisms to prevent errors in cell division and have genes associated with tumour suppression. Understanding these genetic mechanisms could provide valuable insights into cancer research and ageing in humans.

While humans and turtles share a significant portion of their DNA, it is the differences that are particularly intriguing. By studying these differences, scientists can gain a better understanding of the biological processes that contribute to longevity and disease resistance in turtles, which may have potential applications for human health and longevity.

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Studying turtle DNA can help with human health issues

Humans and turtles share a large proportion of their DNA—more than 90% according to some sources. This shared DNA can be traced back to a common ancestor that lived 310 million years ago. Studying the DNA and genomes of turtles can help researchers understand more about human health issues, such as ageing and cancer.

For example, Lonesome George, the last Pinta Galapagos tortoise, and the last member of Chelonoidis abingdonii, was the subject of a genetic study that compared his genome to that of humans. Lonesome George belonged to a species of long-lived animals, and it is believed that they have evolved genetic mechanisms that reduce their risk of developing cancer. By comparing the genomes of Lonesome George and humans, researchers identified several variants in the tortoise genomes that potentially affect hallmarks of ageing. They also found that some genes important for cancer in humans were duplicated in the giant tortoise. This suggests that gene duplication may impact the function of genes and could be related to the tortoise's long life.

Additionally, the study of turtle DNA has implications for understanding human skin health. A genome comparison conducted by a working group led by molecular biologist Leopold Eckhart found that humans and turtles share similar genes for important skin proteins. These genes, known as the Epidermal Differentiation Complex (EDC), have a protective function in both humans and turtles. In turtles, the EDC genes form proteins that harden the outer layer of the skin, leading to the formation of a shell. In humans, these genes protect the skin from microbes and allergens. A better understanding of these genes could lead to improved treatments for skin conditions such as psoriasis, which is associated with mutations in the EDC genes.

The study of turtle DNA has also led to accidental discoveries about human DNA. Researchers from the University of Florida, while studying endangered sea turtles, found that they could collect human DNA from the environment, including from the air, sand, and water. This discovery raises ethical dilemmas about privacy and consent but also has potential applications in forensics, archaeology, and health monitoring. For example, human DNA found in wastewater could be used to monitor the health of the population in that area.

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Human consumption is a threat to turtles

Humans and turtles share a lot of DNA – over 90% – and research into this overlap has helped us understand more about ageing and cancer. However, human consumption is a threat to turtles, and their populations are suffering as a result.

All seven species of sea turtles are listed as endangered by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES). Three species are now classified as endangered, with two of those being critically endangered. It is estimated that only 1 in 1,000 sea turtles survive from egg to adulthood.

Sea turtles have been slaughtered for their eggs, meat, skin, and shells, and suffer from poaching and over-exploitation. They are also at risk of accidental capture in fishing gear, known as bycatch. Climate change is another factor, as it alters sand temperatures, which in turn affects the sex of hatchlings.

In many coastal communities, especially in Central America and Asia, sea turtles have provided a source of food. During the nesting season, hunters comb the beaches at night looking for nesting females. Often, they will wait until the female has deposited her eggs before killing her and taking the eggs and meat. Other parts of the turtle, such as the oil, cartilage, skin, and shell, are also used.

The World Health Organization has advised against eating sea turtle flesh as it may contain Salmonella bacteria, mycobacteria, Leptospires, other bacteria, parasites, trematodes, or high levels of heavy metals and pesticides such as DDT. Despite this, the illegal trade in turtle products persists, and advances in technology have made it easier for buyers and sellers to connect online.

To protect sea turtles, organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the Olive Ridley Project are working to reduce bycatch, eliminate illegal trade, and stem the loss of critical habitats. They also aim to increase public awareness and support for sea turtle conservation.

Frequently asked questions

Humans and turtles share more than 90% of their DNA.

Understanding the DNA shared between humans and turtles can help us understand how different species have evolved and adapted to their environments over time.

Studying the genome of turtles can help us understand the natural mechanisms turtles use to protect their vital organs from oxygen deprivation. This knowledge could potentially be used to improve treatments for heart attacks or strokes.

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