Foreign DNA acquisition by invertebrate genomes

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Evolutionary Biology
• Invertebrate Zoology

Background:

• Invertebrate genomes frequently acquire foreign DNA from bacteria and eukaryotes.
• Viruses are increasingly recognized as significant vectors for horizontal gene transfer (HGT) and mobile element dissemination.
• Recent discoveries reveal gene flow between insect orders mediated by viruses, indicating extensive HGT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the prevalence and mechanisms of horizontal gene transfer in invertebrates.
• To discuss the implications of HGT for insect genome editing technologies.
• To underscore the limited knowledge of insect viruses and their impact on industrial insect rearing.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent studies on horizontal gene transfer in invertebrates.
• Analysis of gene flux mediated by viruses between insect taxa.
• Consideration of implications for insect genome editing and industrial rearing.

Main Results:

• Accidental DNA acquisition by invertebrate genomes is more common than previously thought.
• Transferred DNA can be utilized by the recipient species.
• Endogenous viruses play a role in mediating gene transfer between insect species.

Conclusions:

• Horizontal gene transfer in invertebrates is widespread and mediated by diverse sources, including viruses.
• The application of insect genome editing requires careful consideration of potential gene transfer risks.
• Further research on insect viruses is crucial for understanding and managing industrial-scale insect rearing.