New genes on 'deteriorating' Y chromosome

(University of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna) Decoding Y chromosomes is difficult even with latest sequencing technologies. The question which genes lie on the chromosome and where they came from is hotly debated. Using a new analysis method, scientists from Vetmeduni Vienna made a crucial breakthrough. They showed that genetic material in fruit flies is often transferred to the Y chromosome from other chromosomes. Although largely a result of 'accidents', some of these transfers create function...