《分子遗传学》Chapter 5 Mobile Genetic Elements.ppt

Chapter 5 Mobile Genetic Elements Mobile genetic elements are segments of DNA able to move from site to site in the genome, or between genomes in the same cell. Found in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, they are a diverse group differing in structure, mechanism of mobilization, distribution, freedom of movement and level of autonomy. Mobile elements can be placed into three broad categories according to their level of independence: Episomes: Be able to exist in two states either integrated into the host genome or as autonomous extrachromosomal replicons - are termed episomes (e.g. bacteriophage λ, the F plasmid). Cassettes: Elements whose mobility is controlled by the cell to mediate specific genomic rearrangements are termed cassettes (e.g. yeast mating type cassettes, trypanosome VSG cassettes). Transposable elements: Those elements which cannot replicate outside the host genome, but which control their own mobility within it, are termed transposable elements (e.g. P-elements, retroviruses) Transposable elements fall into two major classes based on their active transposition mechanism. Class I transposable elements (retroelements) utilize an RNA intermediate during the transposition process - an integrated element is transcribed, then reverse transcribed to generate a cDNA copy which is integrated at a new site. Class II transposable elements (transposons) transpose directly as DNA, either by excision and integration or by a replicative process whereby one copy of the element is left at the original site and another is integrated at a new site. 5.1 Mechanisms of transposition Overview of transposition mechanisms. Transposable elements can be divided into two families according to their general mechanism of transposition. Transposons mobilize directly as DNA, whereas retroelements employ an RNA intermediate. Within each family, several specific types of transposition mechanism can be used. (1) Proliferation. Increase th