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DNA-only Transposons

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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.
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Genetic variations accumulating within populations over generations give rise to biological evolution. Evolutionary changes can result in the formation of novel varieties and entire new species. These changes are responsible for the diverse forms of life inhabiting the planet. The evidence for evolution suggests that all living organisms descended from common ancestors.
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The ER, Golgi apparatus, endosomes, and lysosomes work in tandem to modify, sort, and package proteins and lipids. An integrated membrane trafficking network facilitates the back and forth shuttling of molecules within different organelles in the same cell or across the cell membrane.
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jan 22, 2026

piggyBac Transposon System Modification of Primary Human T Cells
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Evolution: Transposon traffic in the mycocosmos.

Tobias Baril1

  • 1Laboratory of Evolutionary Genetics, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Rue Émile-Argand 11, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland.

Current Biology : CB
|January 20, 2026
PubMed
Summary

Genetic material transfers between species are rare in eukaryotes but common in fungi. This study reveals fungi as a key pathway for mobile genetic elements to spread and affect host genomes.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Mycology
  • Genomics

Background:

  • Eukaryotes typically inherit genetic material vertically from parents.
  • Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) between species is a known, but often considered rare, evolutionary mechanism.
  • The role of HGT in fungal evolution and genome dynamics remains incompletely understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence and significance of cross-species genetic material transfer in eukaryotic organisms.
  • To identify fungi as a potential major conduit for horizontal gene transfer.
  • To understand the impact of these transfers on fungal genome evolution and the persistence of mobile genetic elements.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative genomics analysis across diverse fungal species.

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  • Phylogenetic analysis to trace the origin of genetic elements.
  • Bioinformatic tools to identify mobile genetic elements and their integration sites within host genomes.

    • Main Results:

    • Cross-species genetic exchanges are surprisingly frequent in fungi.
    • Fungi serve as a significant pathway for the dissemination of mobile genetic elements.
    • These transfers contribute to the modification and evolution of fungal host genomes.

    Conclusions:

    • Horizontal gene transfer in fungi is a more common and impactful process than previously recognized.
    • Fungi represent a critical, overlooked route for mobile genetic elements to spread and influence eukaryotic genomes.
    • Understanding fungal HGT is essential for comprehending genome evolution and the dynamics of mobile DNA.