DNA with self-interest: Transposable element conquers new strain of fly

Monday, May 11, 2015 - 16:00 in Biology & Nature

Transposable elements are DNA sequences that are capable of changing their genome position by cut and paste or copy and paste through the enzyme transposase. This ability can be harmful for hosts if transposable elements destroy functioning genes, but it can also bring advantages. From an evolutionary point of view, transposable elements diversify the genome and open up chances for adaptation.

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