Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Medindia
Advertisement

Animals Use Their Genes to Avoid Inbreeding

by Venkatraman on November 10, 2007 at 12:11 PM
Animals Use Their Genes to Avoid Inbreeding

Many animals avoid mating between close relatives as it can cause shared but hidden faulty traits to surface in their offspring. A new study throws light on just how they do so.

The study, by researchers at the University of Liverpool, says there is a genetic basis for avoiding inbreeding so as to prevent what is called "inbreeding depression", or the emergence of the faulty traits.

Advertisement

The findings of the study have been published in the online edition of the journal Current Biology.

In experiments with house mice, the researchers found they relied on a set of specially evolved proteins in their urine -- major urinary proteins (MUPs) -- to identify relatives and avoid mating with them.
Advertisement

"Mice use these variable proteins as a kind of genetic barcode that normally differs between individuals," said Jane Hurst, who led the study.

"Animals with the same sets of proteins can recognise each other as relatives (through their scent), and so avoid mating with each other.

"By simply checking the match between their own urine proteins and those of any animal they meet, they will be able to identify many of their closest relatives, even if they have never met them before."

Source: IANS
VEN/C
Font : A-A+

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest General Health News

Japan Approves Bill for Medicinal Cannabis Use
The Japanese parliament approved a bill allowing medical cannabis products and prohibiting their use for non-medicinal purposes.
Americans Struggle to Keep Up Healthy Habits in Holiday Season
Most Americans confess that due to constant flurry of activity during the holiday season, it is difficult to eat nutritiously, exercise, and get enough sleep.
Depression, Constipation & Urinary Tract Infection: Early Signs of Multiple Sclerosis
People who suffer from depression, constipation, and urinary tract infections are more likely to get multiple sclerosis(MS) five years before MS diagnosis.
Antibiotic Misuse Can Cause Kidney Stones & Infection
Seeking internet help for an incomplete antibiotic course resulted in kidney stone formation and urinary tract infection in a young woman.
Brain Care Score Tracks Dementia & Stroke Risks
The Brain Care Score is a tool to evaluate brain health and reduce the risk of brain disorders including dementia and stroke.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
×

Animals Use Their Genes to Avoid Inbreeding Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests