The Similarity in Human Genome and Different Species
- Another human – 100%, same genes in all humans, but different sequence.
- A chimpanzee (primate) – 98%, the closest living creatures to humans.
- A mouse – 92%, mammals are all genetically similar.
- Yeast – 26%, single-celled organisms, which have different housekeeping genes similar or the same as in humans.
- A weed – 18%, totally different metabolic system.
- A fruit fly – 44%, shared genes for the growth and the structure in mammals and insects.
What are Genes and Why are They Important?
The tiny particles in livin
g organisms and the fundamental units of the DNA molecule are called genes. They are discrete and specific sections of the sequence and a part of long DNA molecules. Genes provide all the necessary instructions, which are responsible for the production of all components of living organisms. Some are responsible for metabolic processes, others for visible and physical traits.
Why are Living Organisms So Similar?
All living organisms are similar from the molecular perspective because of the DNA, and the basic organization of living life. The most distinctive differences can be found between animals and plants, or single-celled yeasts and multicellular organisms like humans. All the similarities show that all living organisms share a common ancestry.
Are All People the Same?
All humans share 100% of genes, but the instructions in the genes are not identical. Also, there are various mutations that can occur. So, the truth is, each person is individual and unique. That’s why people have different faces, hair colors, abilities and physical traits, as a result of the different DNA sequences. The housekeeping genes control metabolic processes and any kind of mutation in these genes can cause illnesses or varieties among people. Furthermore, it is amazing how that tiny transparent difference has a huge effect on the variety of all people on Earth.