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Transposons

Transposons

Transposons, or "jumping genes," are small mobile genetic elements (MGEs) that range from 700 to 40,000 base pairs in length. They are found in all organisms and can move within the same chromosome or transfer to different chromosomes. In some cases, transposons can also jump between different host DNA molecules, such as plasmids or viruses, contributing to genetic variability.Barbara McClintock first discovered these mobile genetic elements in the 1940s while studying maize genetics, and she...

DNA-only Transposons

DNA-only Transposons

DNA-only transposons are called autonomous transposons since they code for the enzyme transposase that is required for the transposition mechanism. Insertion of transposons can alter gene functions in multiple ways. They can mutate the gene, alter gene expression by introducing a novel promoter or insulator sequence, introduce new splice sites, and change the mRNA transcripts produced, or remodel chromatin structure.
The donor site from where the transposon is excised is either degraded or...

Overview of Transposition and Recombination

Overview of Transposition and Recombination

Transposons make up a significant part of genomes of various organisms. Therefore, it is believed that transposition played a major evolutionary role in speciation by changing genome sizes and modifying gene expression patterns. For example, in bacteria, transposition can lead to conferring antibiotic resistance. Movement of transposable elements within the genetic pool of pathogenic bacteria can aid in transfer of antibiotic-resistant genetic elements. In eukaryotes, transposons can carry out...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 21, 2026

Understanding the Development of Compensatory Pathways in a Mutant Malaria Parasite Harbouring Hypomorphic Allele of Plant-Like Kinases

Understanding the Development of Compensatory Pathways in a Mutant Malaria Parasite Harbouring Hypomorphic Allele of Plant-Like Kinases

Published on: November 22, 2024

Moving "Forward" in Plasmodium Genetics through a Transposon-Based Approach.

¹Tropical Disease Research Program, Center for Infectious Disease and Biodefense Research, SRI International, Harrisonburg, VA 22802, USA.

Journal of Tropical Medicine

|June 1, 2012

Summary

Forward genetics is advancing our understanding of the human malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. This approach helps identify gene functions and potential drug targets for new interventions.

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Area of Science:

Malariology
Genetics
Parasitology

Background:

The genome of Plasmodium falciparum, the human malaria parasite, is largely annotated with hypothetical proteins of unknown function.
Understanding Plasmodium gene function is crucial for developing effective malaria interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

To explore the utility of forward genetics in elucidating Plasmodium falciparum gene functions and phenotypes.
To highlight the potential of genetic approaches for drug and vaccine development against malaria.

Main Methods:

Application of forward genetics techniques to study Plasmodium falciparum.
Analysis of gene functions and associated phenotypes.

Main Results:

Forward genetics has shown promise in identifying gene functions despite certain limitations.
The technique contributes to a better understanding of parasite biology.

Conclusions:

Further advancements in mutagenesis and genetic screening are expected to reveal critical weaknesses of Plasmodium.
Improved genetic understanding will significantly aid in developing new malaria disease intervention strategies.