Student Article
Mysterious Borg DNA Can Copy Genes From Other Cells!
Borg (noun): A type of DNA that takes in genes from its host.
Gene (noun): A tiny part of DNA that carries instructions for how living things grow and work.
Microbe (noun): A tiny living thing, like bacteria, that can only be seen with a microscope.
Methane (noun): A gas that causes the Earth to warm.
CRISPR (noun): A tool scientists use to cut and fix DNA.
Have you ever heard of tiny DNA scissors that can help fight diseases or protect the planet? Scientists have discovered something new called a "Borg," and it might be as powerful as CRISPR — a tool used to change DNA!
Meet the Borg: a DNA discovery from mud
In a pool of muddy water, scientists found a strange new type of DNA. They named it a "Borg," after the robots from Star Trek that absorb new abilities. Borgs are special because they can copy genes from their host cells. A host is the cell they live in, called an "archaean." These cells are ancient and existed long before plants and animals.
Tiny helpers fighting climate change
Some Borgs live inside microbes that eat methane gas. Methane is a harmful gas that makes the Earth warmer. The Borgs help these microbes eat even more methane, stopping it from getting into the air. This is good for the planet!
Like CRISPR, but maybe better!
Scientists think Borgs could lead to new science tools, like CRISPR. CRISPR is a tool that works like tiny scissors to cut and fix DNA. It helps scientists change genes to treat diseases or improve crops. Now, Borgs might add even more power to gene editing!
So, what's next?
The discovery of Borgs shows how much we still have to learn about the tiny things living in the soil. Who knows what other amazing tools we’ll find next?
© Jason Goodyer / Our Media
Borg (noun): A type of DNA that takes in genes from its host.
Gene (noun): A tiny part of DNA that carries instructions for how living things grow and work.
Microbe (noun): A tiny living thing, like bacteria, that can only be seen with a microscope.
Methane (noun): A gas that causes the Earth to warm.
CRISPR (noun): A tool scientists use to cut and fix DNA.