Date: May 16, 2016
Source: University of East Anglia
Pieces of DNA that predict
lifespan are shorter in birds that are inbred, according to new research from
the University of East Anglia (UEA).
The findings mean that inbreeding
could be linked to a shorter lifespan.
The team also found effects that
spanned generations -- with the young of inbred mothers also being negatively
affected.
The DNA pieces in question, known
as telomeres, are found in almost all animals -- including humans.
They act as protective caps at
each end of a chromosome -- providing protection from damaging substances.
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