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It is not known what initially caused the Tasmanian Devil Facial Tumour Disease. Tasmanian Devils seem to be particularly vulnerable to this disease because of their genetic makeup: they have particularly low levels of genetic diversity and a chromosomal mutation which is unique among carnivorous mammals. It is hoped that, by studying this genetic makeup, scientists will be able to develop a vaccine and/or cure.

In 2009, scientists identified the genetic marker that causes Tasmanian devils to be predisposed to the disease, and this will go a long way towards finding a cure.

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12y ago

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