All transposons articles
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NewsNew type of human jumping gene found in a poxvirus
Until now, no one has observed a human gene that is both mobile and required for bodily functions. Scientists have found a human genetic element in a poxvirus and discovered it was both an important gene for brain function and a jumping gene capable of moving and inserting itself in genomes.
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NewsYeast study uncovers how cells identify and silence unwanted jumping genes
Yeast cells sense abnormal RNA patterns produced by invading transposons and respond by activating pathways to silence them, a study shows. This process extends to any invasive DNA, provided it produces enough RNA disturbance for cells to detect.
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NewsTeam discovers cyanobacteria activate different genes by day and by night
By analyzing gene expression in the cyanobacterium Nostoc punctiforme, scientists discovered that during daylight, the cells focus on metabolism. But under cover of darkness, they turn to the control of genome repair and activate various genetic elements.
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NewsMap of bacterial gene interactions reveals potential drug targets
Researchers have developed a new technique called Dual transposon sequencing (Dual Tn-seq), which allows for rapid identification of genetic interactions. It maps how bacterial genes work together, revealing vulnerabilities that could be targeted by future antibiotics.
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NewsActivating ‘jumping genes’ speeds up bacterial evolution from decades to weeks
Scientists have developed a system to control and accelerate the evolution of changes in the bacterial genome structure, targeting small ‘jumping genes’, or DNA sequences known as insertion sequences.
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NewsBacterial ‘jumping genes’ can target and control chromosome ends
Researchers have discovered a new mechanism that transposons, or “jumping genes” use to survive and propagate in bacteria with linear DNA, with applications in biotechnology and drug development.
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NewsA dial for tuning the immune system: Discovery sheds light on why COVID makes some sicker than others
A new study identifies an “immune system tuning dial,” which originated as a bug in the genetic code tens of millions of years ago. When this signaling goes awry and leads the body to under or overreact, people are more likely to develop severe or Long COVID.
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NewsRepeated outbreaks of coffee wilt disease threatens our daily brew
A new study reveals that the fungal pathogen Fusarium xylarioides continues to pose a significant threat to coffee production and incomes across sub-Saharan Africa.
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NewsScientists discover a novel vehicle for antibiotic resistance
An antibiotic-resistance gene forms an unusual structure that may provide constant protection against tetracycline in a common gut bacterium.