A recent study found that 8% of human cells contain HERVs. Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are remnants of ancient retroviruses that have been passed down for generations. But what puzzles researchers is that retroviruses aren’t supposed to be inherited. HERVs are inactive and don’t produce infectious particles, although some are capable of producing proteins and RNA. It will take more research to fully comprehend their potential effects on human health, such as in cancer and autoimmune disorders. Read full article here
Research
Improving media literacy could boost trust towards the news, IMPRESS report suggests
The UK media is regulated by the likes of IPSO and Ofcom. The report by press regulator IMPRESS highlights the link between low levels of media literacy and trust in the news. The study found that three quarters of those who did not know if journalists were regulated did not trust the news. It suggests that improving media literacy is one way to stem the erosion of trust, and shows that audiences have an appetite for information on news processes. Stakeholders need to collaborate in order to rebuild trust in the news, and independent media is well placed to do this. Read full article here
Merv
February 1, 2023
