Scientists have uncovered a hidden layer of biology, revealing that previously overlooked genetic regions can produce tiny proteins. A large study by the TransCODE Consortium found that about 25% of non-canonical DNA regions generate detectable peptides, expanding our understanding of the human proteome.
These newly identified molecules include microproteins and a new class called “peptideins,” which may have important but still unclear functions.
This breakthrough challenges the idea that only well-known genes produce proteins and opens new pathways for studying disease, drug targets, and human biology at a deeper level.
Read more at Nature
