Phylogenetic analysis of the functional domains of mariner-like element (MLE) transposases

We have analyzed the sequences of mariner-like element (MLE) transposases, in order to obtain a clearer picture of their phylogenetic relationships. I n particular, we have considered their two known structural domains, as wel l as the nucleic acid sequences of the MLE inverted terminal repeats (ITR). The most consistent tree was obtained using sequences of the catalytic dom ain of the transposase. The trees obtained with the amino acid sequences of the ITR-binding domain and the ITR sequences themselves were similar to th at obtained with the catalytic domain. However, a major difference indicate d that the cecropia sub-family is divided into two sub-groups. These new tr ees were used to examine the evolutionary divergence of mariner-like transp osable elements, with particular reference to the possibility that recombin ation events or gene conversions created mosaic elements during the evoluti on of transposons.