In Panda news, a study recently published in Nature reveals that the genome of the Panda (Ailuropoda melanoleura) has been sequenced by a group of scientists led by China's Jun Wang of the Beijing Genomics Institute in Shenzen. I am happy to have contributed blood samples for their sequencing. They found many genes shared by species such as humans and dogs, and interestingly, they hypothesize that the Panda itself is genetically more adapted for a carnivorous lifestyle than the vegan bamboo-based lifestyle most Pandas lead. They key to the Panda's ability to subsist on bamboo likely lies solely in the harmonious relationship between the Panda and his/her gut bacteria.
Humans can take a lesson from this: living in harmony with nature gives you many advantages.
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