Mutated Transcription Factor Defies Current Understandings of Genetic Mutation

Mutated Transcription Factor Defies Current Understandings of Genetic Mutation
A digital representation of the human genome at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City on Aug. 15, 2001. Each color represents one the four chemical compenents of DNA. Mario Tama/Getty Images
Updated:
An international team of scientists has identified a novel and extremely rare genetic mutation with unprecedented capabilities that may change the world’s understanding of immune deficiencies.
The mutation has been named T95R and causes a host of changes to the transcription factor IRF4—a protein that is crucial for the development and function of the immune system. Transcription factors are proteins that bind to regions of DNA and regulate gene production.
Lily Kelly
Lily Kelly
Author
Lily Kelly is an Australian based reporter for The Epoch Times, she covers social issues, renewable energy, the environment and health and science.
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