A dance of histones silences transposable elements in pluripotent stem cells
Researchers discovered a mechanism where histone variant H3.3 is replenished to silence transposons in pluripotent stem cells, potentially linked to cancer tumorigenesis
Transposable Elements
Articles tagged with Transposable Elements
"Jumping" DNA regulates human neurons
Scientists discovered that transposable elements influence human brain development by partnering with two specialized proteins known as Krép-el-associated box-containing zinc finger proteins. These partnerships regulate gene expression in neurons and influence the development and function of adult organs.
The secret life of melons revealed: "Jumping sequences" may alter gene expression
Scientists from the University of Tsukuba found that retrotransposons may change how genes are expressed in melons. In a study published in Communications Biology, researchers discovered that retrotransposons had a role in altering gene expression when melon genomes were diversifying and affecting fruit ripening.
Breaking the silence: scientists investigate epigenetic impact across whole genome
Researchers at OIST Graduate University have identified previously unknown sections of DNA that are silenced by epigenetic regulation in plant cells. The study reveals a crucial role of these sites in suppressing the activity of disruptive 'jumping genes' called transposons, which can threaten genome integrity.
SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 30, 2020
Transposable elements play an important role in genetic expression and evolution
A new study reveals that transposable elements contribute to cell-specific chromatin looping, gene regulation, and species divergence. The researchers developed software MapGL to track physical gain and loss of genetic sequences across species, shedding light on the evolutionary influences of structural variations.
Clemson geneticists' collaborative research sheds light on 'dark' portion of genome
Researchers identify over 4,500 novel transcripts in fruit fly genome that regulate networks of genes and contribute to genetic disorders. These findings shed light on the 'dark' portion of human genome, which accounts for 98% of its content.
Researchers uncover genetic mystery of infertility in fruit flies
A novel parasitic gene in fruit flies is responsible for destroying eggs in ovaries, similar to human genomes filled with mobile parasitic genes called transposons. The discovery may lead to a better understanding of how human genomes are shaped by transposons and the small RNA molecules used to silence them.
EMBL spins the Sleeping Beauty transposase
Researchers at EMBL developed a new variant of the Sleeping Beauty transposase with improved biochemical properties, allowing for direct protein delivery and autonomous cell penetration. This breakthrough enables efficient and stable genome modifications in target cells on demand.
Seeking better treatment for ALS, Lou Gehrig's disease
A recent study by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has made significant strides in understanding the role of proteins called TDP-43 in ALS. The researchers found that TDP-43 aggregates in nerve cells can cause a toxic effect, leading to paralysis. This discovery opens up new avenues for developing effective treatments and therapies.
Jumping genes can cause rare developmental disorders in children
Researchers discovered that jumping genes cause genetic changes in some patients with undiagnosed neurodevelopmental diseases. Diagnoses were achieved for three previously undiagnosed children, helping their families access support and understand disease risks.
The almond & peach trees genomes shed light on the differences between these close species
The genome comparison of almond and peach trees sheds light on their evolutionary history and the role of mobile genetic elements in diversification. The study found that transposons may have driven the differences between the two species, including variations in flavor and fruit quality.
$2.8M in NIH grants to pinpoint male fertility genes
Researchers at Michigan State University are using $2.8M in NIH grants to study the piRNA pathway and its role in controlling male fertility. They hope to identify new targets for male contraception, addressing a significant reproductive health issue affecting one in ten couples.
Harnessing tomato jumping genes could help speed-breed drought-resistant crops
Researchers have discovered that drought stress triggers the activity of Rider retrotransposons, potentially leading to new trait variations in crops. The study highlights the potential of transposons as a source of crop improvement, particularly in breeding more resilient crops against climate change.
Renegade genes caught red handed
Researchers dispute the long-held belief that heterochromatin is a reliable guardian of the human genome. A study by University of Arizona researcher Keith Maggert reveals that heterochromatin can flicker on and off, allowing transposons to cause mutations and damage. This instability has significant implications for our understanding ...
Smuggling route for cells protects DNA from parasites
Cells use a molecular safety mechanism to smuggle genetic information molecules around the cell, which are then used to recognize and shut down parasites. This discovery provides new insight into how animal genomes defend themselves against DNA parasites and reveals a previously unknown RNA transport route.
Study sheds light on the darker parts of our genetic heritage
Researchers successfully studied DNA methylation loss in human cells, revealing the activation of transposons that can lead to serious diseases. The study provides new insight into how changes in DNA methylation contribute to diseases and opens up potential for a new understanding of genome function.
NYU Abu Dhabi researchers unlock the secrets of liver regeneration
Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have identified a new way the liver regenerates itself, involving the redistribution of epigenetic marks. By removing key epigenetic regulators, they found that genes were activated early and sustained during regeneration, providing a significant advance in understanding liver regeneration.
Seed abortion and the role of RNA Pol IV in seed development
Seeds with extra genomes undergo interploidy seed abortion due to defective endosperm development. Researchers found that RNA Pol IV silences gene expression from transposons and repetitive DNA, playing a key role in seed abortion.
Turning an old enemy into a helpful friend
A study by EPFL researchers found that the KRAB domain-containing zinc finger protein Zfp30 initially repressed a retrotransposon, but later evolved to activate genes involved in fat-cell formation instead, surprising scientists
Taming the genome's 'jumping' sequences
Researchers found that KZFP proteins domesticate regulatory sequences in transposable elements, minimizing their impact on early embryonic development. This process allows for the incorporation of transposable element-based controlling sequences into transcriptional networks.
Expansion of transposable elements offers clue to genetic paradox
A recent study reveals that transposable element insertions drive rapid phenotypic variation in plants, enabling them to adapt to novel environments. Researchers found that transposable elements are enriched in the gene promoter regions of a plant species with limited genetic variation, associated with changes in gene expression.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2019
Selfish genetic elements amplify inflammation and age-related diseases
Researchers from the University of Rochester discover that LINE1 retrotransposons become more active with age, triggering inflammation and age-related diseases. By understanding the impacts of these genomic parasites, scientists can develop strategies to inhibit them and combat aging.
HIV drug could treat Alzheimer's, age-associated disorders
A new study found that an HIV drug reduces age-related inflammation and signs of aging in mice, holding promise for treating Alzheimer's and other diseases. The drug works by halting retrotransposon activity in old cells, which are linked to age-associated disorders.
New techniques better determine how ancient viral DNA influences human genes
Researchers have developed new techniques to identify which of our genes are influenced by ancient viral DNA snippets, revealing complex interactions between viruses and human genetic material. The study found that a single transposon can control multiple genes, increasing the complexity of its impact on health and disease.
Jumping genes shed light on how advanced life may have emerged
Researchers discovered that retrotransposons and nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ) interacted to create a selection pressure that helped lead to the emergence of advanced life. This interaction enabled eukaryotes to mix and match genes, creating more complicated functions.
SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2018
Studies raise questions over how epigenetic information is inherited
Researchers from the University of Cambridge found that epigenetic marks are reprogrammed from one generation to the next, contradicting previous theories. Only a small percentage of variably-methylated transposable elements showed evidence of epigenetic inheritance.
Abnormal gene copying seen in tauopathy fruit fly models
Research reveals that genetic copy-and-paste activity is increased in fruit fly models of tauopathies, leading to neuron death. Lamivudine, an anti-retroviral drug, decreases gene copying and reduces brain cell death.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 23, 2018
Key protein providing defense against 'jumping genes' identified
A study has revealed that heterochromatin Protein 1a (HP1a) is crucial for the repression of transposons in germline cells, protecting the genome from instability and infertility. The piRNA pathway plays a vital role in silencing transposons, and HP1a's function in this process was previously unknown.
Not junk: 'Jumping gene' is critical for early embryo
A new study in mice reveals that a 'jumping gene' plays a critical role in the first stages of embryonic development. High levels of LINE1 RNA expression are necessary to regulate gene activity and enable embryos to progress past the two-cell phase.
Research reveals how Tau aggregates can contribute to cell death in Alzheimer's disease
Researchers found a strong link between Tau protein accumulation and genomic instability, which may lead to cell death in Alzheimer's disease. The study identified activated transposable elements as a potential trigger for this process.
Line-1 modes of nuclear entrance and retrotransposition
LINE-1 retrotransposons play a pivotal role in genome evolution and are involved in processes such as aging, brain activity, cancer immunology and cancer development. The study highlights the importance of cell cycle regulation and the DNA replication complex in LINE-1 cellular localization and activity.
Genome does not like to excessively change in male germ cells
Researchers at Osaka University found that GTSF1 is essential for regulating piRNA-mediated cleavage of target RNA, preventing retrotransposon overactivity. This mechanism safeguards the genome in male germ cells.
A mother's attention affects the genetic code of her young
A new study reveals that pups with less maternal care have more repeated genetic sequences in their neurons. The researchers found a link between maternal care and transposon replication in the hippocampus, but not in other brain regions or organs.
Potential new way to limit antibiotic resistance spreading
Researchers at EMBL have unraveled the molecular basis of a major antibiotic resistance transfer mechanism and developed molecules to block its movement. This could help control the spread of antibiotic resistance genes in bacteria, including those that are part of our normal microbiome.
Counting chromosomes: Plant scientists solve a century-old mystery about reproduction
A team of geneticists has discovered a mechanism that enables plants to count their chromosomes, solving a century-old problem. They found that small RNA molecules, called miR845, trigger the synthesis of secondary RNAs that silence key genes, preventing viable seeds from forming.
'Magic pools' approach can hurry studies of novel bacteria
Researchers use a new method called magic pools to study hundreds of transposon systems in parallel, speeding up the process of identifying functional transposons. This approach enables scientists to test multiple genetic variants simultaneously, reducing the trial and error process and accelerating the development of new genetic tools.
Mobile genetic elements that alter the function of nearby genes are detected
Researchers have detected mobile genetic elements that can switch off gene expression, altering protein production in eukaryotic organisms. These elements are prevalent in genomes of plants and fungi, but their impact is often negative, leading to degeneration and reduced productivity.
'Jumping genes' solve swamp wallaby ancestry
Genetic research reveals swamp wallabies are part of the Macropus genus, which includes grey and red kangaroos. The study found shared retrotransposons with woodland wallabies, indicating a common ancestry around five to seven million years ago.
Preventing a genetic uprising in early life
A recent study published in Cell Stem Cell has discovered a mechanism to prevent genetic chaos caused by transposons in early human development. The research found that endosiRNAs, a type of small interfering RNA, play a crucial role in regulating transposon activity during epigenetic reprogramming.
Genetic advance for male birth control
Researchers at Michigan State University have identified the PNLDC1 gene as a key player in regulating sperm production, providing a genetic foundation for male birth control. The study's findings suggest that silencing this gene can lead to infertility in mice, making it a promising approach for human male contraception.
Party discipline for jumping genes
Researchers found that each transposon family interprets cell signals uniquely and uses distinct strategies to determine jumping timing. This study sheds light on the complex interactions between host cells and jumping genes.
Repetitive elements shape embryonic chromatin landscape
Scientists from Helmholtz Zentrum München have found that retrotransposons, particularly LINE1 elements, regulate global chromatin accessibility in the early mouse embryo. This study identifies a novel role for retrotransposons in shaping the chromatin landscape necessary for correct developmental programming.
SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 28, 2017
Tracking down the jumping genes of maize
Researchers at UC Davis and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have mapped the 'jumping genes' of maize, identifying transposable elements that regulate gene expression and impact plant traits. The new genome sequence enables a deeper understanding of the complex relationships between these elements and the diversity of the genome.
Newly identified small RNA fragments defend the genome when it's 'naked'
A team from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has discovered small RNA fragments that protect the genome from retrotransposons during epigenetic reprogramming in preimplantation embryos. These fragments, consisting of 18 and 22 nucleotides, are perfect complements of sequences within retrotransposons.
Newly discovered DNA sequences can protect chromosomes in rotifers
Rotifers have been found to use Terminons, giant DNA sequences, to shield their chromosomes from degradation, which is linked to aging. This finding may help researchers better understand the mechanisms of aging.
The proteins that domesticated our genomes
A family of ~350 human proteins has been found to establish complex interplay with transposable elements, creating largely human-specific gene regulatory networks. These networks influence all of human biology, both in health and disease, and are likely to have profound implications for understanding human development and physiology.
RNA pathway plays key role in health, lifespan, fly study shows
A recent study by Brown University researchers has found that the RNA pathway operates in a non-reproductive body tissue, called the fat body, in flies and helps sustain life. The study also shows that blocking components of the pathway leads to increased DNA damage, shorter lifespan and poor health.
Slow motion waves of jumping genes in the human genome
A new Illinois study makes detailed predictions about an intriguing mechanism of genomic evolution. The researchers modeled the interaction between Alu and L1 elements as a stochastic process, predicting oscillations similar to predator-prey interactions.
SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 14, 2016
Decoding the genome of the Japanese morning glory
The Japanese morning glory genome has been fully decoded, revealing genes that determine flower and leaf shapes, as well as flower colors and patterns. The research also identified a gene involved in plant hormone biosynthesis disrupted by transposons in mutants.
Decoding of tarsier genome reveals ties to humans
The tarsier genome analysis confirms that tarsiers belong to the dry-nosed primate category, sharing recent transposon families with humans and bushbabies. The study also identified 192 genes linked to the tarsiers' unique traits, which may be associated with human diseases.
Study results advance 'transposon theory of aging'
A new study strengthens the links between transposons and aging, showing that increased transposon activity correlates with decreased lifespan in fruit flies. The study also reveals that manipulating genes involved in heterochromatin repression can lengthen lifespan, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for age-related diseases.
Tight DNA packaging protects against 'jumping genes,' potential cellular destruction
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine discovered that tight DNA packaging in chromosomes mainly guards against virus-like genetic elements known as transposons or 'jumping genes,' which can copy and paste themselves throughout the genome, potentially destroying important genes. The discovery clarifies the role of heterochromatin and ad...
Four steps for validating stem cells
Scientists have created a four-step process to determine accurate signatures of human embryonic stem cells, relating them to precise developmental stages. The key steps involve analyzing transposable elements and DNA methylation state to assess pluripotency.
Watching 'jumping genes' in action
Researchers at the University of Illinois have observed transposon activity in real-time using fluorescent microscopy. The study reveals that jumping gene activation is dependent on environmental factors such as food availability.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 13, 2016
'Jumping gene' took peppered moths to the dark side
A 'jumping gene' mutation, a type of transposable element, is responsible for the dark form of peppered moths that emerged during Britain's industrial revolution. The mutation was independently dated to around 1819 and is consistent with historical records.
Bird genomes contain 'fossils' of parasites that now infect humans
A new type of transposable element was discovered in certain bird genomes, which also occurred in nematode worms that are human parasites. The finding reveals that these modern human parasite species were birds from 25-17 million years ago.
Grafted plants' genomes can communicate with each other
Researchers at Salk Institute and Cambridge University found that grafted plants can share epigenetic traits, enabling them to communicate with each other. This discovery may allow growers to exploit epigenetic information to improve crops and yields.
Introducing the mighty Panoramix -- defender of genomes!
Researchers have identified the protein Panoramix, which enables cells to silence specific genes and prevent transposons from disrupting genomes. This discovery provides new insights into the innate defense mechanisms against genetic elements that can cause sterility in animals.
DNA protection, inch by inch
Researchers at EMBL Grenoble have found a way to identify and silence 'jumping genes' that can alter the genetic code, using tiny RNA molecules called piRNA. These piRNAs guide proteins to destroy the genes, preventing uncontrolled changes in DNA.
DNA with self-interest
A transposable element has invaded a new species of fly, Drosophila simulans, through horizontal gene transfer. The P-element's rapid spread suggests that transposable elements can quickly adapt and evolve within species.
SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2015