MJM MedTalks (S03E03): Genomes and Japan (Part 1): The surprising influence of viruses on human evolution

Abstract

The human genome consists of about 6.2 billion base pairs. Almost half of these consist of repeated sequences, also called transposable elements, which have long been regarded as biologically inactive. However, we are now starting to realize that they may play a bigger role in the regulation of our genes than previously thought, and even give clues to our evolution. In this two-part episode, we are talking to Prof. Guillaume Bourque of the Department of Human Genetics at McGill. His goal is to understand mammalian genomes via comparative analyses and investigate the role of transposable elements in gene regulation and the impact of genome rearrangements in evolution and cancer. He also shares with us his experiences in running a successful collaboration between Canada and Japan, and how we can continue to do meaningful work despite global tensions and the rise of AI in research.