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Updated: May 22, 2026
11:23
A Multilayer Microfluidic Platform for the Conduction of Prolonged Cell-Free Gene Expression
Published on: October 6, 2019
Continuous adaptation through genetic communication - a putative role for cell-free DNA
Dimetrie L Peters1, Piet J Pretorius
1North-West University, School for Physical and Chemical Sciences, Centre for Human Metabonomics, Potchefstroom, South Africa. 13152726@nwu.ac.za
Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy
|May 8, 2012
Summary
Cell-free DNA, particularly the virtosome fraction, may facilitate horizontal gene transfer (HGT) and influence inherited traits, challenging traditional evolutionary models. Understanding these roles is key to unlocking its potential as a biomarker.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) includes a virtosome fraction of newly synthesized DNA.
- This cfDNA fraction is capable of horizontal gene transfer (HGT), genomic incorporation, and expression.
- Understanding cfDNA's biological roles is crucial for its biomarker potential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the biological roles of the virtosome fraction of cfDNA.
- To investigate the potential involvement of cfDNA in the inheritance of acquired characteristics.
- To propose mechanisms for cfDNA synthesis and release.
Main Methods:
- Conceptualization of metabolic DNA as a precursor to cfDNA.
- Identification of virtosomes as lipoprotein complexes releasing cfDNA.
- Hypothesizing endoreplication processes for metabolic DNA synthesis.
- Suggesting apoptotic-like breakdown prior to cfDNA release.
Main Results:
- The virtosome fraction of cfDNA is proposed to be involved in horizontal gene transfer (HGT).
- Acquired characteristics may be inherited via cfDNA, contrary to neo-Darwinian theory.
- Endoreplication and apoptotic-like breakdown are suggested mechanisms for cfDNA generation.
Conclusions:
- Subgenomic selection of genetic information occurs continuously.
- Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) influences homeostatic adaptation in higher organisms.
- Cellular genomes can acquire and donate active genomic parts, impacting evolution.
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