The bond between humans and dogs isn't just psychological or the common love of bacon.
It's also genetic.
For about 15,000 years, dogs have migrated in lockstep with humans across the globe. They have followed us from Asia into Europe, North America and back to Africa — all the while hunting, protecting and snuggling us.
Now it looks like dog DNA has evolved in lockstep with our DNA at the same time.
Scientists in China have found evidence that dogs developed protection against malaria in the same way that people in West Africa have.
One tiny change in dogs' genes likely boosted their immune response to the malaria parasite, geneticists from Yunnan University reported Tuesday in the journalMolecular Biology and Evolution.
The gene — called ADGRE1 — is also linked with malaria protection in people.
More
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
My cat (P) and my dog (Ruckus)know me better then my friends. Yet they both love me but not as much as I love them. I have had 2 dogs before my Ruckus (both pitts) and I lost the 1st after 12 years then the 2nd at 16 years last December 9th. Now my last Pitt is 13 and I hope I out live him because he will not be happy without me. He entered my life at the young age of 6 months. P, I found her on-line and as a kitten I knew I wanted her. She fits in so well and got along with Essie ( my last dog) and now my Ruckus. If I say who wants a cookie they both run to the kitchen. Of course the treats are made for animals not to say they don't like my food too. (M. Pekala)
ReplyDeleteI love dogs.I just hate it when they die.I was a basket case when my Pit had to be put to sleep.This post partially explains the connection,at least to me.
ReplyDeleteMy ex husband had plenty in common.
ReplyDelete