Are we humans simply remodelled apes? Chimps with a tweak? Is the difference between our genomes so minuscule it justifies the argument that our cognition and behaviour must also differ from chimps by barely a whisker? If “chimps are us” should we grant them human rights? Or is this one of the biggest fallacies in the study of evolution? NOT A CHIMP argues that these similarities have been grossly over-exaggerated - we should keep chimps at arm’s length. Are humans cognitively unique after all?
Monday, 6 July 2009
Beyond The Book Of Life
Interesting article from NEWSWEEK about epigenetics. Unlike genetic changes that work by mutations which alter letters in the genetic code of genes, and unlike other forms of gene regulation where promoter sequences upstream of genes regulate their activity, epigenetics focuses on the regulation of genes by chemicals which screen DNA from being read and implemented or bind it so tightly that it cannot be transcribed. DNA methylation, and histone attachment would be two prime examples. In this way gene-environment interactions, resulting in such epigenetic regulation of genes, may be passed down the generations. So, for instance, heavy smokers might pass on lasting epigenetic changes, relevant to the disease process, to their children. How much might epigenetics contribute to differences between primate species - particularly chimps and humans?
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