Evolution of small putative group I introns in the SSU rRNA gene locus of Phialophora species
2011

Evolution of Small Group I Introns in Phialophora Species

Sample size: 8 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Harris Lorena B, Rogers Scott O

Primary Institution: Bowling Green State University

Hypothesis

How do small putative group I introns evolve in the SSU rRNA gene locus of Phialophora species?

Conclusion

The small putative group I introns in Phialophora have common features that may represent group I introns at their minima and appear to have a single origin.

Supporting Evidence

  • Eight small putative group I introns were identified in the rRNA small subunit genes of Phialophora isolates.
  • Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the eight introns are monophyletic.
  • All introns contain common pairing regions characteristic of group I introns.

Takeaway

This study looked at tiny pieces of DNA called introns in some fungi and found they all came from the same ancestor and have similar structures.

Methodology

The study involved comparing eight small putative group I introns from different isolates of Phialophora species using PCR, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis.

Limitations

The study does not address the functional implications of the introns in the host organisms.

Participant Demographics

Isolates were obtained from various plant and human sources.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1756-0500-4-258

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