Sperm is 600 million years old

According to the latest study by scientists from Feinberg Medical School, Northwestern University, there is a sex gene, found in all animals whose function is virtually unchanged throughout. evolution.

This gene, called Boule, is responsible for sperm production. In the study of scientists, Boule is the only gene with the ability to monopolize the production of sperm in every animal, from insects to mammals.

'This is the first clear evidence that sperm production is a very ancient process, perhaps originating from the dawn of animal evolution 600 million years ago,' Eugene Xu , the professor of obstetrics at Feinberg spoke. He further emphasized: 'This finding shows that sperm production of all animals comes from a common prototype'.

Distribution system of Boule and Dazl genes in animals and fungi.Photo: Sciencedaily

The discovery of the important role of Boule gene will provide a better understanding of male infertility and create a basis for research and development of male birth control pills. In addition, it is also important data to be able to find pesticides, anti-parasitic drugs effectively transmitted by disrupting the function of Boule gene in these species.

'Surprisingly, sperm production is influenced by natural selection processes. This process tends to change due to the strong selection pressure of sperm genes that can improve fertility. This is also an important factor in having sex without changing through species'.

Boule, the oldest known sperm gene, is found in different organisms in the evolutionary chain: humans, mammals, fish, insects, insects, creatures The backbone or in the animals is considered to be the most primitive like sea anemones.

Source: Sciencedaily