Selfish DNA - Examples

Examples

  • Transposons copy themselves to different loci inside the genome. These elements constitute a large fraction of eukaryotic genome sizes (C-values): about 45% of the human genome is composed of transposons and their defunct remnants.
  • Homing endonuclease genes cleave DNA at its own site on the homologous chromosome, triggering the DNA double-stranded break repair system, which "repairs" the break by copying the HEG onto the homologous chromosome. HEGs have been characterized in yeast, and can only survive by passing between multiple isolated populations or species.
  • Supernumerary B chromosomes are essential chromosomes that are transmitted in higher-than-expected frequencies, which leads to their accumulation in progenies.

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