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Related Concept Videos

Retroviruses02:33

Retroviruses

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Retroviruses and retrotransposons both insert copies of their genetic elements into the genome of the host cell. Thus, the viral genes are passed on when the host genome is replicated or translated. A typical retroviral DNA sequence contains 3-4 genes that encode the different proteins required for its structural assembly and function as a molecular parasite. This DNA is transcribed into a single mRNA, which is very similar in structure to conventional mRNAs, i.e., it is capped at the 5’...
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Retrovirus Life Cycles01:10

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Retroviruses have a single-stranded RNA genome that undergoes a special form of replication. Once the retrovirus has entered the host cell, an enzyme called reverse transcriptase synthesizes double-stranded DNA from the retroviral RNA genome. This DNA copy of the genome is then integrated into the host’s genome inside the nucleus via an enzyme called integrase. Consequently, the retroviral genome is transcribed into RNA whenever the host’s genome is transcribed, allowing the...
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LTR Retrotransposons03:08

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LTR retrotransposons are class I transposable elements with long terminal repeats flanking an internal coding region. These elements are less abundant in mammals compared to other class I transposable elements. About 8 percent of human genomic DNA comprises LTR retrotransposons. Some of the common examples of LTR retrotransposons are Ty elements in yeast and Copia elements in Drosophila.
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Viral Recombination00:57

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Cells are sometimes infected by more than one virus at once. When two viruses disassemble to expose their genomes for replication in the same cell, similar regions of their genomes can pair together and exchange sequences in a process called recombination. Alternatively, viruses with segmented genomes can swap segments in a process called reassortment.
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Viral Mutations00:36

Viral Mutations

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A mutation is a change in the sequence of bases of DNA or RNA in a genome. Some mutations occur during replication of the genome due to errors made by the polymerase enzymes that replicate DNA or RNA. Unlike DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase is prone to errors because it is not capable of “proofreading” its work. Viruses with RNA-based genomes, like HIV, therefore accrue mutations faster than viruses with DNA-based genomes. Because mutation and recombination provide the raw material...
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Overview of Transposition and Recombination02:13

Overview of Transposition and Recombination

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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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Determining 3'-Termini and Sequences of Nascent Single-Stranded Viral DNA Molecules during HIV-1 Reverse Transcription in Infected Cells
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To Be Mobile or Not: The Variety of Reverse Transcriptases and Their Recruitment by Host Genomes.

Irina R Arkhipova1, Irina A Yushenova2

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Biochemistry. Biokhimiia
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Reverse transcriptases (RTs), enzymes that synthesize DNA from RNA, are found across all life domains. Originally from viruses and mobile genetic elements, they are now recognized for essential cellular roles, including chromosome maintenance.

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Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Reverse transcriptases (RTs), or RNA-dependent DNA polymerases, challenge the traditional DNA-to-RNA-to-protein genetic information flow.
  • Initially discovered in retroviruses, RTs are now identified across eukaryotes, bacteria, and archaea, indicating their widespread presence in life.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the discovery and evolution of reverse transcriptases.
  • To highlight the significance of RTs in both viral replication and cellular functions.
  • To discuss the concept of domesticated RTs and their impact on cellular processes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of retroviral and cellular reverse transcriptase discoveries.
  • Analysis of the roles of RTs in viral replication and retrotransposon activity.
  • Examination of domesticated RTs, including diversity-generating elements and telomerases.

Main Results:

  • RTs are crucial for retroviral replication by enabling RNA genome to DNA conversion for host genome integration.
  • In cellular organisms, most RTs originate from retrotransposons, which use reverse transcription for genomic mobility.
  • Increasing evidence shows domesticated RTs performing vital cellular functions, suggesting their evolution from selfish genetic elements.

Conclusions:

  • Reverse transcription is more prevalent in cellular organisms than previously understood.
  • Domesticated RTs demonstrate how mobile genetic elements can be repurposed for essential cellular functions, such as chromosome end maintenance.
  • The study underscores the significant evolutionary impact of reverse transcription and RTs across all domains of life.