Dr. Arvinda Nath: Endogenous Retroviruses and Disease
Our genomes carry a massive amount of integrated viral DNA from infections in our ancestors. New evidence shows that they may be reactivated and drive cancer and neurological disorders.
Talking Biotech with Dr. Kevin Folta · Colabra
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Show Notes
Upon sequencing the human genome, scientists were surprised to find that it is composed of about 8% viral sequence. These fossils are relics of ancient primate infections where retroviruses incorporated into the chromosome and became part of the human lineage. While these viral elements have contributed positively to speciation and development of specific human traits, they also have the capacity to become pathogenic. Dr. Advinda Nath is the Clinical Director of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. He joins Talking Biotech to share his experiences, knowledge and predictions in this exciting, emerging area of research.