The article discusses the discovery of a new aspect of our genetic makeup, focusing on « jumping genes » or transposons that were previously thought to be dormant for millennia but are now found to be actively involved in cancer. These genes are small DNA fragments that are quite similar to each other and exist in hundreds of thousands of copies across our chromosomes, constituting about 50% of our genome. They have the unique capability to move around within the genome, influencing genetic processes such as replication.

Key points from the article include:

1. Nature of Jumping Genes: Originally believed to be inert, recent studies have revealed that these genes are not only active but also play significant roles in the development of cancers.
2. Research Findings: Researchers from IRCAN (Institute of Research on Cancer and Aging) have found that these genes, while long believed to be evolutionary remnants, contribute to crucial biological processes like the formation of the placenta in mammals.
3. Genetic Impact: The ability of these genes to relocate within the genome can lead to genetic instability, which is a known risk factor for the development of cancer.
4. Future Applications: The article suggests that this discovery opens new avenues for medical research, potentially leading to new cancer therapies by targeting these genes. It emphasizes the need for further study to fully understand their mechanisms and implications in genetics and disease.
5. Cartography of Active Genes: The team is mapping these active genes across the human genome to better understand their roles and interactions with other genetic elements, which could have profound implications for the treatment and understanding of various diseases.

The discovery is considered significant and has been published in the prestigious journal Cell Genomics, indicating a major advancement in the field of genetics and its application to medicine.