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The influence of transposable elements on animal colouration
James D Galbraith1, Alexander Hayward1
1Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy, University of Exeter, Cornwall TR10 9FE, UK.
Trends in Genetics : TIG
|May 14, 2023
Summary
Transposable elements (TEs) drive animal color evolution by altering gene regulation and splicing. LTR elements are frequently implicated, with more examples expected from wild species.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary genetics
- Genomics
- Animal coloration
Background:
- Transposable elements (TEs) are mobile genetic sequences within genomes.
- TEs can influence host traits due to their mutagenic nature and embedded regulatory sequences.
- TEs are known to contribute to evolutionary novelty.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review documented cases of transposable elements influencing animal coloration.
- To identify major patterns and outstanding questions in TE-driven color evolution.
- To discuss the role of different TE types in generating color variation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies reporting TE-induced animal coloration phenotypes.
- Analysis of reported mechanisms, including regulatory and splicing alterations.
- Categorization of involved TE types and host species.
Main Results:
- TE-induced color phenotypes often result from novel regulatory sequences or splice sites affecting pigment cells or synthesis.
- Long terminal repeat (LTR) elements appear to be frequently involved in animal color evolution.
- Current examples are concentrated in model/domesticated insects and mammals, but wild species cases are increasing.
Conclusions:
- Transposable elements are significant drivers of evolutionary changes in animal coloration.
- TEs provide novel genetic mechanisms for rapid adaptation and diversification of phenotypes.
- Future genomic studies will likely uncover more instances of TE-mediated color evolution across diverse taxa.