Researchers in Peking University found 43 protein-coding genes which were peculiar to people. Moreover, they put forward a long noncoding RNA origin mechanism of the new functional protein. The relevant achievement has been published on PLoS Genetics.

Exploring the law of the specific gene origin of human was contemporary frontier science problems. The Li Chuanjun research group in Peking University has used rhe susmonkeys as its research object to explore the human evolution for a long term.They finely interpreted the genome and transcription of monkeys, and built genomics research platform of monkeys.

On the basis of preliminary work, the research team found 43 protein-coding genes which were peculiar to people. These genes didn’t encode protein in monkeys’ and chimpanzees’ corresponding areas. Their transcription products existed as long non-coding RNA. These areas had the characteristics of enrichment. They probably provided the foundation of the form of new gene and the stabilization of open reading frame.

In order to clarify the biological function of these protein which are generated by these new genes, the researchers made an analysis with the help of population genetics. They found that these new genes were experiencing significant negative effect of naturals election, which showed that they were playing an important biological function.

The significance of the research was to have a glimpse of the origin of human geneand the mystery of evolution. Meanwhile, it provided a new perspective forrevealing the biological meaning of long non-coding RNA.

Time: 30^th July, 2015

Source: China Science Daily