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Updated: Jan 20, 2026
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Host-transposon interactions: conflict, cooperation, and cooption.
Rachel L Cosby1, Ni-Chen Chang1, Cédric Feschotte1
1Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA.
Genes & Development
|September 5, 2019
Summary
Transposable elements (TEs) are mobile DNA sequences that can invade genomes. Their evolutionary success arises not just from evading host defenses but also from developing symbiotic relationships, benefiting both TEs and hosts.
Area of Science:
- Genomics
- Evolutionary Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Transposable elements (TEs) are mobile DNA sequences that pose a threat to genome integrity.
- Eukaryotic evolution has developed mechanisms to suppress TE activity.
- TEs are widespread and constitute a significant portion of eukaryotic genomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the evolutionary success of transposable elements beyond host evasion.
- To explore the role of commensal and mutualistic strategies in TE propagation.
- To understand how coevolutionary processes involving TEs contribute to cellular complexity and organismal function.
Main Methods:
- Comparative genomics analysis to identify TE distribution and impact.
- Bioinformatic approaches to detect coevolutionary patterns between TEs and host genomes.
- Functional genomics studies to assess the impact of TE sequences on cellular activities.
Main Results:
- TEs have evolved beyond merely evading host suppression.
- Commensal and mutualistic interactions between TEs and hosts mitigate the costs of TE propagation.
- Coevolutionary dynamics involving TEs drive the emergence of complex cellular functions and the co-option of TE sequences for host benefit.
Conclusions:
- The evolutionary success of TEs is facilitated by symbiotic strategies, not solely host evasion.
- TE-host coevolution contributes to genome evolution and the development of novel cellular functions.
- TE sequences can be repurposed for organismal benefit, highlighting a complex evolutionary interplay.
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