Public Library of Science. “Viruses helped shape human genetic variability.” Science Daily. February 19, 2010. [Internet]. [accessed Feb 20, 2010] Available from:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/02/100218203053.htm
Viruses Helped Shape Human Genetic Variability
Viruses are historically well-known as potential threats to human populations worldwide. A group of Italian scientists have used population geneticists to study variants in genes which may indicate susceptibility to, or protection from viral infections.
In the study, which consisted mainly of computer simulations, researchers looked at populations of different geographic areas who have been exposed to different groups of viruses. The hypothesis was that populations would develop increased resistance to those pathogens most prevalent in their geographic area. This would indicate that certain viruses would be targeted by natural selection and that variants in the human genome could help prevent infection or lessen the severity of related diseases. Populations of one geographic area would develop immunities different from those in other areas due to the particular viruses present.
Through this study, 139 human genes were found that modulate susceptibility to viral infections due to protein interactions between the genes and viruses. It is hoped that identification of responsible gene variants may help scientists develop new vaccines or cures for viral diseases. The approach of this study may also be used to identify susceptibility to infections contracted from other, non-viral pathogens.
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