Cell Lineage Trees Developed

Cell Lineage Trees Developed

The Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel announced that a research team has developed a method of tracing the lineage of individual cells. The researchers proved that the tiny mistakes in copying DNA which sometimes occur when a cell divides carry a history of cell division. According to the press release, “The study focused on mutations in specific, mutation-prone areas of the genome known as microsatellites. In microsatellites, a genetic 'phrase' consisting of a few nucleotides(genetic 'letters') is repeated over and over; mutations manifest themselves as additions or subtractions in length. Based on the current understanding of the mutation process in these segments, the scientists proved mathematically that microsatellites alone contain enough information to accurately plot the lineage tree for a one-billion-cell organism.” A one-month old human embryo contains a billion cells.

In the study, the team used organisms with a rare genetic defect which allows frequent and rapid mutation. (Normal cells self-correct the copying errors.) They then used a computer program to trace the cell lineage tree. The mathematical research was tested by observing the cell division in culture.

This is truly exciting news in biology. With a method of obtaining a biological history, researchers may eventually (but not soon, this is me projecting and not a scientific pronouncement by a researcher!) be able to find an accurate and highly specific genetic marker for the possibility of certain cancers or disease arising. It should also help stem cell researchers in directing differentiation. There is probably also the possibility of particular drugs or therapies being developed to correct the mutations before they replicate.