What is erv?

ERVs (Endogenous Retroviruses) are remnants of ancient retroviral infections that have become integrated into the genome of host species. They are found in the DNA of most vertebrates, including humans, and make up a significant portion of our genetic material.

ERVs are the result of past infections of germ cells, which are the cells that give rise to sperm and eggs. If an infectious retrovirus inserts genetic material into a germ cell, that genetic material can be passed down to future generations, becoming a permanent part of the host genome.

ERVs are generally thought to be harmless and are considered to be "fossil" remnants of ancient viral infections. However, in some cases, ERVs have been implicated in disease, such as certain types of cancer or autoimmune disorders.

Studying ERVs can provide insights into evolution, as they can serve as markers of evolutionary history and can help researchers understand the interactions between viruses and host organisms. Additionally, ERVs have been used as tools in genetic engineering and gene therapy research.