Mobile DNA and the TE-Thrust hypothesis: supporting evidence from the primates
2011
Mobile DNA and the TE-Thrust Hypothesis: Evidence from Primates
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Oliver Keith R, Greene Wayne K
Primary Institution: Murdoch University
Hypothesis
We propose the TE-Thrust hypothesis to encompass TE-facilitated processes by which genomes self-engineer coding, regulatory, karyotypic or other genetic changes.
Conclusion
Transposable elements (TEs) play a significant role in the evolution of primates by facilitating genetic changes that contribute to species diversity and adaptation.
Supporting Evidence
- TEs can cause significant changes to genomes, leading to new traits.
- Alu elements have been particularly influential in primate evolution.
- TE-Thrust can lead to both beneficial and harmful genetic changes.
- Lineages with a suitable repertoire of TEs tend to be more fecund and adaptable.
Takeaway
Transposable elements are like little pieces of DNA that can jump around in our genes and help create new traits, making animals like monkeys and humans different from each other.
Methodology
The paper reviews numerous cases of beneficial TE-caused modifications to the genomes of higher primates.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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