Researchers at UT Austin found Asgard archaea's immune components, viperins and argonautes, contributed to human immune system complexity.

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin discovered that vital human immune system components, viperins and argonautes, originated from Asgard archaea. These findings support the theory that complex life emerged from a symbiotic relationship between bacteria and Asgard archaea. The study reveals that Asgard archaea's defense systems contributed to the complexity of eukaryotic life today, further highlighting their role as microbial ancestors to eukaryotes.

August 21, 2024
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