Just sequencing the lice genome

2010/06/22 Aulestiarte Lete, Izaro - Elhuyar Zientziaren Komunikazioa

• Biologia
• Genetika

A team of international scientists has just sequenced the human lice genome (Pediculus humanus). Among the genomes of insects that have been sequenced so far, the smallest is the same, as reported.

Researchers believe that the small size of the genome may reflect their favorite habitat and reduced diet. In fact, he lives in any slit between clothes and only feeds on human blood. “Therefore, the number of genes responsible for detecting and responding to the environment is also limited,” they say. The study reveals, among other things, that the louse has fewer genes of taste and odour receptors than most insects. He lives in full dependence on man to survive.

Photo: D. Dennis Juran/CDC