Chapter 39: Gene Splicing
Caleb combined the system’s [Bio-Interface] and [Gene Splicing] skills to map out the Cavecrawler Beetle’s genetic sequence. The information unfolded around him, and he studied every detail of the monster’s DNA.
"Even across worlds, the genetic code is universal," he remarked, a gleeful smile spreading across his face as he connected with the genetic data.
He unravelled the condensed sequence, exposing the nucleotide bases. The light ability gene should be close to the eye structure, he thought, scanning through the sequence until he pinpointed what he was looking for.
Alongside the nucleotide bases, histone proteins were present, playing a role in packaging the DNA. A few other components were also visible.
[Selected sequence is 2,657 bases long, including intronic regions,] the system informed him.
’Alternative splicing is just as crucial,’ Caleb acknowledged internally. His focus shifted to the histone proteins.
These were essential for stabilizing the gene once spliced into his own DNA. However, there could be variations between the proteins of humans and monsters.
"Could these associated proteins cause complications?" he asked the system. Copying the sequence alone wasn’t enough—he needed assurance it wouldn’t harm him.
[Negative]
The brief response eased his concerns. "Good. Isolate the sequences for these proteins along with the light ability gene," he instructed, his confidence bolstered by the system’s confirmation.
Caleb watched as the system isolated the targeted sequence, pushing aside everything else. All the components he needed to replicate the beetle’s skill were now separated and ready.