Phylogenetic evidence for extensive lateral acquisition of cellular genes by Nucleocytoplasmic large DNA viruses
2008
Gene Acquisition in Large DNA Viruses
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Filée Jonathan, Pouget Noëlle, Chandler Mick
Primary Institution: Laboratoire de Microbiologie et Génétique Moléculaires, C.N.R.S, Campus Toulouse III, France
Hypothesis
Do Nucleocytoplasmic Large DNA Viruses (NCLDV) acquire genes from cellular sources?
Conclusion
NCLDV viruses have evolved by significant growth through gene acquisition from cellular sources.
Supporting Evidence
- NCLDV lineages show frequent gene exchange.
- Viruses infecting protists acquire genes from bacteria.
- Metazoan viruses predominantly acquire host genes.
- Lateral gene transfers suggest a smaller ancestral genome for NCLDV.
Takeaway
Some viruses can take genes from other living things, which helps them grow bigger and more complex.
Methodology
Phylogenetic survey of NCLDV genes with homologs in cellular genomes.
Limitations
Complete genome sequences of some viruses were not available for analysis.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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