What are transposons?

transposons, also called transparent elements (TES) or "jumping genes", are genetic formulas that move from one location of the genome to another. They are commonly found in sequences of living organisms with deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), including humans and plants. The changing location of transposons in the genetic structure can sometimes cause mutations or visible defects.

Initially, transparent elements of Barbara McClintock and Marcus Rhoades were discovered at the beginning of the 30th. Before this discovery, scientists believed that DNA was stable and unchanged. Transposon studies have significantly improved the understanding of how genetic factors can affect the body. Although these pioneering studies were not immediately adopted, McClintock's work earned her the Nobel Prize in 1983.

There are two general varieties of transposons. Class II transposons are composed of DNA, which moves from one genetic location to another in a direct way, similar to "copying and padding" from one sentence to yiné place. Alternatively, the class transposons and the next step in the duplication process, copy the DNA formula to ribonucleic acid (RNA), and then convert it back to the DNA to another location. New location.

Since the beginning of 2012, scientists have not fully understand the benefits or purpose of transposed elements. In fact, many experts refer to them as "unsolicited" DNA because they seem not to improve the quality of the host organism. Some scientists theorized that the diversity caused by transparent elements is important for natural selection; But there is no evidence that this is true.

While research continues, physical changes caused by TES and is easy to observe. As an example, genetic mutations caused by transparent elements can be seen in the "Indian" diversity of corn. Each transposon creates an extra -colored core. Patterns of dark and light mutated nuclei give the ears the mosaic appearance. These formulasThe transposon genes do not harm the plant, but give it a colored appearance.

Some scientists hope to use transposed elements to adjust genetic structures in a positive way. By driving each transposon, scientists can be able to prevent unwanted mutations. The ability to influence mutations at genetic level could lead to the main breakthroughs in the treatment and prevention of diseases.