Meddle
Member (Idle past 1298 days) Posts: 179 From: Scotland Joined: 05-08-2006
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Message 45 of 52 (518954)
08-10-2009 3:23 AM
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Reply to: Message 44 by slevesque 08-10-2009 1:32 AM
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Well our chromosomes have two copies, which means mutations can be eliminated during mitosis as the chromosomes cross over, negating the effects of Muller's ratchet. Unlike bacteria for example, where only one copy of the genome exists. Of course if individual cells in our body do develop significant mutations, they usually experience a controlled death or are removed my the immune system. And of course ageing is not simply a result of a build up of mutations. Other factors have a role, and probably more significant than mutations, such as the effects of immune cell responses or general wear and tear on the tissues, especially those that can actively regenerate, such as the nervous system. Even the oxygen we breath is damaging.
This message is a reply to: | | Message 44 by slevesque, posted 08-10-2009 1:32 AM | | slevesque has replied |
Replies to this message: | | Message 46 by slevesque, posted 08-10-2009 3:40 AM | | Meddle has not replied |
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