Scientists have decoded the genetic code and read the genome of the purple sea urchin. They found that this invertebrate has many more genes in common with vertebrates such as mice and humans than originally expected.
Scientists have decoded the genetic code and read the genome of the purple sea urchin. They found that this invertebrate has many more genes in common with vertebrates like mouse and human than they originally expected.
For example, the two groups share genetic complexes that include immune system genes and sensing genes. Among the most surprising findings is the discovery that a great deal of genetic power is needed for the beginning of life. During the first two days of life, the purple sea urchin embryo uses half of its protein-coding genes, and 80% of its transcription factors.
