Death Gene

In genetics, a death gene or a suicide gene causes a cell to self-destruct through apoptosis, a kind of programmed cell death. The stimulation of this gene has been looked into as a treatment for cancer and other pernicious diseases as it may destroy malignant cells . This is also a form of DNA programming which dictates species’ lifespan. For instance, butterflies live to two to seven days; domestic horses to 25 to 33 years, and humans to around 79 years.

Add flashcard Cite Random