The genome of the brown alga Ectocarpus siliculosus contains a series of viral DNA pieces, suggesting an ancient association with large dsDNA viruses
2008
The genome of the brown alga Ectocarpus siliculosus contains viral DNA pieces
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Delaroque Nicolas, Boland Wilhelm
Primary Institution: Max-Planck-Institut für Chemische Ökologie
Hypothesis
Some dsDNA viruses are monophyletic and evolved principally through genome reduction.
Conclusion
The study supports the idea that the Ectocarpus algal genome contains remnants of an ancient viral genome, suggesting a complex integration and recombination system.
Supporting Evidence
- The algal genome is split by viral sequences that are highly similar to EsV-1 DNA.
- Evidence suggests that the EsV-1 genome might have originated from these viral DNA pieces.
- Several lines of evidence indicate a complex integration and recombination system in the Ectocarpus genome.
Takeaway
Scientists found pieces of a virus's DNA in the genome of a seaweed, showing that viruses can mix with the DNA of living things over time.
Methodology
A genomic library from EsV-1-infected algae was screened using labelled EsV-1 DNA to find integration sites.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website