“Scientists Uncover the Genetic Basis of Fingerprints”.Scientists have discovered the genetic basis of fingerprints, according to a study published in the journal eLife. The researchers found that a gene called SMARCAD1 plays a crucial role in the development of the ridges and valleys that make up fingerprints.
“Scientists Uncover the Genetic Basis of Fingerprints”
The team used CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology to remove SMARCAD1 from mice embryos and found that the mice had no fingerprints. Further analysis revealed that the gene is responsible for regulating the expression of other genes involved in skin development.
This discovery could have important implications for forensic science. Fingerprints have long been used as a means of identifying individuals, but the underlying genetic mechanism behind their formation was not well understood until now. By understanding the genetic basis of fingerprints, forensic scientists may be able to develop more accurate methods of identification.
The study also sheds light on the evolution of fingerprints. The researchers found that SMARCAD1 is present in all primates, indicating that fingerprints likely evolved in the common ancestor of primates around 70 million years ago.
Overall, this study represents a significant breakthrough in our understanding of fingerprints and their genetic basis. The findings could have important implications for both forensic science and our understanding of the evolution of primates.
