Mammalian-wide interspersed repeats (MIRs) and their role in mammalian gene function and evolution

Transposable elements (TEs) are ubiquitous components of plant and animal genomes and constitute more than ~45% of the human genome. Though originally considered as 'parasitic' or 'junk' DNA, TEs are now thought to have played a role in shaping genomes during evolution, contributing to genome plasticity and diversity. All classes of retrotransposons accumulate in the genome via a process termed retrotransposition, wherein the elements are reverse transcribed into RNA and inserted into the genome as DNA. Exaptation of these elements can provide additional or novel function for endogenous genes. Mammalian-wide interspersed repeats (MIRs) are short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs), belonging to the non-autonomous class of retroelements and are found in all mammals. The recruitment of an MIR element by a gene may provide insight into mammalian evolution and gene function.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

phd

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

doctoral

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Nottingham Trent University

Year dc:date.issued

2009

Author dc:creator

• Croft, SM

Language dc:language

en