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Koala bear genome decoded
July 7 , 2018
2204 days
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- An international team of 54 scientists has successfully sequenced the marsupial’s whole genome. The whole genome was found to consist of over 26,000 genes.
- Researchers found expansions within a particular gene family (P450 gene) and reported that these genes help the koala detoxify the eucalyptus leaves.
- Researchers also reported that the lactation proteins protect the young ones in the pouch and help it develop a strong immune system.
- The koala Phascolarctos cinereus, or, inaccurately, koala bear is an arboreal herbivorous marsupial native to Australia.
- The koala is classified as ‘vulnerable’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature due to habitat loss and widespread disease.
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