Retrotransposition

The capsid of the virus-derived retrotransposon Copia, a parasitic genome element, mediates synaptic plasticity at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction

Researchers found that Copia's capsid plays a crucial role in controlling structural synaptic plasticity at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction. The study suggests that this parasitic genome element influences neuronal communication and behavior.

'Jumping genes' found to alter human colon genomes, offering insights into aging and tumorigenesis​

Researchers found that L1 jumping genes can be widely activated in normal cells, leading to the accumulation of genomic mutations over time. The study highlights the critical role of epigenetic changes in regulating L1 jumping gene activity.

A potential danger of CRISPR gene editing — and why base editing may be safer

Experimental study finds large DNA insertions caused by retrotransposition can increase cancer risk in human cells edited with CRISPR/Cas9. In contrast, base editing and prime editing show much lower rates of retrotransposition.

Common antiretroviral drug improves cognition in mouse model of Down syndrome

Researchers found that lamivudine improved cognition in a mouse model of Down syndrome, which could lead to new pharmacological treatments for cognitive impairment. The study highlights the potential of targeting retrotransposons, segments of DNA that contribute to neurodegenerative diseases.

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Ancient viral elements embedded in human genome not from fossil retrovirus

Researchers discovered that ancient retroviruses embedded in human genome can undergo retrotransposition into iPS cells, potentially posing a risk for regenerative medicine. The study found that HERV-K is expressed in SOX2-expressing cells and may cause cancer and neurological diseases by altering gene expression profiles.

Scientists track 'stealth' DNA elements in primate evolution

Researchers tracked Alu elements in primate genomes, finding a 20-million-year period of quiescence followed by rapid expansion. The 'stealth driver' model suggests that low-activity Alu elements contribute to human-specific retrotransposition activity.