transposon
Noun: A transposon is a specific genetic sequence, a segment of DNA, that has the unique ability to change its position within a genome. It can move ("jump") from one location to another on a chromosome or between different chromosomes. This process is called transposition. Transposons are often referred to as "jumping genes."
Transposons are fundamental concepts in genetics and molecular biology. They are discussed in contexts of genetic mutation, evolution, and genome structure. * The presence of a transposon within a gene can disrupt its function, leading to a mutation. * Researchers study transposons to understand genome evolution and stability. * A bacterial transposon may carry antibiotic resistance genes, which can be transferred between cells.
- Autonomous vs. Non-autonomous: An autonomous transposon encodes the enzyme (transposase) necessary for its own movement. A non-autonomous transposon lacks this enzyme and can only move if an autonomous transposon in the same genome provides the transposase.
- Retrotransposon: A major class of transposons that move via an RNA intermediate. They are copied from DNA to RNA, then reverse-transcribed back into DNA, which is then inserted into a new genomic location. They are abundant in the genomes of many eukaryotes, including humans.
- Transposable element: A broader, more formal synonym for transposon.
- Transposition (noun): The process or event of a transposon moving to a new genetic location.
- Transposase (noun): The enzyme that catalyzes the movement of a transposon.
- Jumping gene (informal)
- Transposable element (formal)
- Mobile genetic element
- Insertion sequence: A simple type of bacterial transposon that carries only the genes needed for its own transposition.
- To transpose (verb): The action of a transposon moving. (e.g., "The genetic element can transpose itself to a new locus.")
- Excision and integration: The two key steps in the transposition process for many transposons; the element is cut out (excised) from its original site and inserted (integrated) into a new one.
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a segment of DNA that can become integrated at many different sites along a chromosome (especially a segment of bacterial DNA that can be translocated as a whole)
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