Putative cross-kingdom horizontal gene transfer in sponge (Porifera) mitochondria
2006
Horizontal Gene Transfer in Sponge Mitochondria
Sample size: 9
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Rot Chagai, Goldfarb Itay, Ilan Micha, Huchon Dorothée
Primary Institution: Tel-Aviv University
Hypothesis
Can sponges acquire mitochondrial introns through horizontal gene transfer from fungi?
Conclusion
The study suggests that a mitochondrial intron in sponges may have originated from a fungus through horizontal gene transfer.
Supporting Evidence
- The mitochondrial cox1 gene of Tetilla sp. was found to contain a 1143 bp intron.
- The intron is similar to group I introns found in fungi.
- Phylogenetic analysis suggests the intron may have been transmitted horizontally from a fungus.
Takeaway
Sponges might share genes with fungi, showing that they can swap DNA like friends sharing toys.
Methodology
The cox1 gene was sequenced from several sponge species to investigate the presence of introns.
Limitations
The study does not identify the specific fungal lineage that contributed the intron.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website