Amount of Functional DNA?

[Phydeaux]

I realize that no one really knows what the amount of functional DNA is and this is probably why I've had a hard time finding how much DNA is functional. However, I have seen estimates from 3% to 10% for the known amount of functional DNA, but this has just been on forums. Where are these people getting these estimates from? Does anyone know the known or estimated amount of functional DNA? I'd like to see some sources for this information if possible. Thanks!

[mith]

probably things we find code for proteins

[Phydeaux]

I finally found a source and I suppose I should share. Apparently, some DNA which we do not know the function of is "conserved" meaning they have not been changed by mutations, supposedly because of natural selection. According to this source: "In mammals, the proportion of the genome that is subject to natural selection is much lower, around 5%."

Eyre-Walker A, Keightley PD. The distribution of fitness effects of new mutations. Nat Rev Genet. 2007;8:610–618.

The source also has a lot more information. I recommend it. If anyone has a source for the 10% functional Genome, I would much like learn how they came to that conclusion. Thanks!

[JackBean]

So, do you ask, how much DNA is used or how much DNA is "protected" by natural selection and thus conserved?

[kolean]

All DNA is 'functional'.
Even if its function is to make a pretty karyotype for metaphase photos.

[guyuemissyou]

in my opinion，all DNA is functional ，you know that natural selection always exist，so all the information no functional will be wipe off，and the remaining are all useful for organism~~

[JackBean]

All DNA is 'functional'.
Even if its function is to make a pretty karyotype for metaphase photos.

in my opinion，all DNA is functional ，you know that natural selection always exist，so all the information no functional will be wipe off，and the remaining are all useful for organism~~

Yes, also all the transpozons and inserted viruses are functional, right?