Platypus genome provides evolution insight
Published: May 8, 2008 at 1:16 AM
BATON ROUGE, La., May 8 (UPI) -- U.S. and British researchers say an analysis of platypus DNA holds potential for advances in human disease prevention.
Researchers said they now have a better understanding of mammalian evolution. "With adaptations like webbed feet to fit its aquatic lifestyle and the poison spurs that decorate males, the platypus represents for many a patchwork of evolutionary development," Louisiana State University officials said Wednesday in a news release.
"Their genomic organization was strange and a little unexpected," LSU biologist Mark Batzer said in a statement. "It appeared much more bird- and reptile-like than mammalian, even though it is indeed classified as a mammal."
Batzer said the research provides insight into mammalian gene regulation and immune systems.
Researchers said they now have a better understanding of mammalian evolution. "With adaptations like webbed feet to fit its aquatic lifestyle and the poison spurs that decorate males, the platypus represents for many a patchwork of evolutionary development," Louisiana State University officials said Wednesday in a news release.
"Their genomic organization was strange and a little unexpected," LSU biologist Mark Batzer said in a statement. "It appeared much more bird- and reptile-like than mammalian, even though it is indeed classified as a mammal."
Batzer said the research provides insight into mammalian gene regulation and immune systems.
© 2008 United Press International. All Rights Reserved.
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This material may not be reproduced, redistributed, or manipulated in any form.
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In this image from NASA's Atmospheric Infrared Sounder instrument on NASA's Aqua spacecraft, Cyclone Nargis is pictured when it was a Category one hurricane located 370 miles west of Yangon, Myanmar on May 1, 2008. Tropical Cyclone Nargis flooded the region on May 4, 2008. The death toll from the cyclone and its aftermath is feared to hit or exceed 100,000 lives. (UPI Photo/NASA/MODIS Rapid Response Team)
NASA satellite images show Tropical Cyclone Nargis in Myanmar
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