DNA Transposons

DNA Transposons

  A small mobile genetic element (DNA) that moves around the genome or to other genomes within the same cell, usually by copying itself to a second site but sometimes by splicing itself out of its original site and inserting in a new location within the same or another chromosome, plasmid, or cell and thereby transferring genetic properties.

  Transposons have been used for transgenesis and insertional mutagenesis in different organisms, since these elements are not generally dependent on host factors to mediate their mobility. Consequently, DNA transposons are useful tools to analyze the regulatory genome, study embryonic development, identify genes and pathways implicated in disease or pathogenesis of pathogens, and even contribute to gene therapy.

Fig. 1: DNA transposon example