Turns out, about 8% of our DNA is made up of ancient viruses that infected our ancestors millions of years ago—and they’re not just dead weight! Scientists just found these viral bits actually help control which genes turn on or off, especially during early development. One viral family, MER11, even has a subtype active only in humans and chimps. Basically, our so-called 'junk' DNA is more like a secret control panel for what makes us human. Wild, right? #Science #Genetics #ScienceNews