Scientists Discover Sixth DNA Base?

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Scientists Discover Sixth DNA Base?

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By Jenna Iacurci

May 05, 2015 12:35 PM EDT

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Scientists may have discovered a sixth DNA base, changing the way we think about our genetic makeup,
according to a new study.
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), the main component of our genetic material, is formed by combining four
parts: A, C, G and T (adenine, cytosine, guanine and thymine). These parts, or bases, of DNA combine in
thousands of possible sequences to provide the genetic variability that makes us human beings.

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In the early 1980s, a fifth component was added to these four

"classic" bases, called methyl-cytosine (mC), which is derived from
cytosine. Then, in the late 1990s, mC was recognized as the main
cause of epigenetic mechanisms. Meaning, it can switch genes on
or off depending on the physiological needs of each tissue.
In recent years, researchers have studied this fifth DNA
base in more detail because it seems alterations in the mC
base contribute to the development of many human
diseases, including cancer.
Now, according to new findings published in the
journal Cell, a sixth possible DNA base may also exist.
Called methyl-adenine (mA), this potential DNA base may
also help determine the epigenome and would therefore be
key in the life of the cells.

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Although scientists have known for years the existence of mA in

distantly-related bacteria - used to protect against the insertion of
genetic material from other organisms - it was believed to be a
phenomenon unique to primitive cells.

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Scientists Discover Sixth DNA Base? : Biology : Nature World News

However, now this latest study suggests that "more complex cells
called eukaryotes such as the human body cells, also present the
sixth DNA base," Manel Esteller, director of the Epigenetics and Cancer Biology Program of the Bellvitge
Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), said in a statement.
Normally, levels of mA in described genomes are low, making them difficult to study. But Esteller and his
team were able to make this discovery using unique analytical methods with high sensitivity, possibly
leading to a rewrite of biology books.
"These studies suggest that algae, worms and flies possess mA and it acts to regulate the expression of
certain genes, thus constituting a new epigenetic mark," he added. "In addition it seems that mA would play
a specific role in stem cells and early stages of development."
"Now," Esteller concluded, "the challenge we face is to confirm this data and find out whether mammals,
including humans, we also have this sixth DNA base, and consider what its role is."
For more great nature science stories and general news, please visit our sister site, Headlines and Global
News (HNGN).

Tags DNA , genes , genetics , Base , DNA Base , Adenine , Cytosine , Guanine , Thymine , humans ,
biology

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