Yhn HealthPandemics first seen 20 h ago, last 4 min ago, peak #1
Virus Stole a Human Gene and Won't Let Go of It
The molluscum contagiosum virus has apparently stolen a human gene and retained it over evolutionary time, according to reporting in the New York Times. The finding sheds light on how poxviruses hijack host genetic material to evade or manipulate the immune system. Readers are discussing the evolutionary implications and what gene theft reveals about virus-host arms races.
Why now: The evolutionary novelty of a virus capturing and keeping a human gene is striking to science readers.
molluscum contagiosum virusNew York Times
Rank over time, top of the chart is #1. 68 snapshots from 20 h ago to 4 min ago.
Evidence
- Virus Stole a Human Gene and Won't Let Go of It · gumby · 93
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