The developmental control of transposable elements and the evolution of higher species

Transposable elements (TEs) account for at least 50% of the human genome. They constitute essential motors of evolution through their ability to modify genomic architecture, mutate genes and regulate gene expression. Accordingly, TEs are subject to tight epigenetic control during the earliest phases...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published inAnnual review of cell and developmental biology Vol. 31; p. 429
Main Authors Friedli, Marc, Trono, Didier
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 13.11.2015
Subjects
Biological Evolution
DNA Transposable Elements - genetics
Embryonic Development - genetics
Embryonic Stem Cells - physiology
Epigenesis, Genetic - genetics
Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental - genetics
Humans
Transcription, Genetic - genetics
KAP1
retrotransposon
endogenous retrovirus
KRAB-ZFP
transposable element
endovirome
Online AccessGet more information

Cover

More Information
Summary:Transposable elements (TEs) account for at least 50% of the human genome. They constitute essential motors of evolution through their ability to modify genomic architecture, mutate genes and regulate gene expression. Accordingly, TEs are subject to tight epigenetic control during the earliest phases of embryonic development via histone and DNA methylation. Key to this process is recognition by sequence-specific RNA- and protein-based repressors. Collectively, these mediators are responsible for silencing a very broad range of TEs in an evolutionarily dynamic fashion. As a consequence, mobile elements and their controllers exert a marked influence on transcriptional networks in embryonic stem cells and a variety of adult tissues. The emerging picture is not that of a simple arms race but rather of a massive and sophisticated enterprise of TE domestication for the evolutionary benefit of the host.
ISSN:1530-8995
DOI:10.1146/annurev-cellbio-100814-125514