Widespread Endogenization of Genome Sequences of Non-Retroviral RNA Viruses into Plant Genomes
2011

Endogenization of Non-Retroviral RNA Viruses in Plants

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Author Information

Author(s): Chiba Sotaro, Kondo Hideki, Tani Akio, Saisho Daisuke, Sakamoto Wataru, Kanematsu Satoko, Suzuki Nobuhiro

Primary Institution: Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University, Kurashiki, Japan

Hypothesis

Can non-retroviral RNA virus sequences integrate into plant genomes?

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that non-retroviral RNA virus sequences are widespread in plant genomes, indicating multiple independent integrations into various plant lineages.

Supporting Evidence

  • Non-retroviral RNA virus sequences have been found in the chromosomes of various plant species.
  • The most widespread sequences were related to the coat protein genes of the family Partitiviridae.
  • Phylogenetic analyses indicate multiple independent integrations of viral sequences into plant genomes.

Takeaway

Plants can take bits of viruses and keep them in their DNA, which helps scientists understand how plants evolved.

Methodology

The study involved searching public genomic databases and conducting molecular analyses to identify integrated viral sequences in plant genomes.

Limitations

The study primarily focused on specific plant families and may not represent all plant species.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.ppat.1002146

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