Evolution of Genome Size and Complexity in Pinus
Author Information
Author(s): Alison M. Morse, Daniel G. Peterson, M. Nurul Islam-Faridi, Katherine E. Smith, Zenaida Magbanua, Saul A. Garcia, Thomas L. Kubisiak, Henry V. Amerson, John E. Carlson, C. Dana Nelson, John M. Davis
Primary Institution: University of Florida
Hypothesis
If retrotransposon expansions are responsible for genome size differences within the Pinaceae, as they are in angiosperms, then they have yet to be identified.
Conclusion
Most of the enormous genome complexity of pines can be explained by divergence of retrotransposons, however the elements responsible for genome size variation are yet to be identified.
Supporting Evidence
- Gymny is a previously undescribed retrotransposon family in Pinus.
- Gymny elements occupy a physical space at least the size of the Arabidopsis thaliana genome.
- Retrotransposon expansions may explain genome size differences within the Pinaceae.
Takeaway
Pine trees have very complex genomes, and this study looks at a new type of genetic element that might help explain why their genomes are so big and complicated.
Methodology
The study involved massively parallel DNA sequencing and analysis of retrotransposon families in the Pinus genome.
Limitations
The elements responsible for genome size variation in pines have not yet been identified.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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