The role of selfish genetic elements in eukaryotic evolution

Authors
Hurst, GDD Werren, JH
Citation
Gdd. Hurst et Jh. Werren, The role of selfish genetic elements in eukaryotic evolution, NAT REV GEN, 2(8), 2001, pp. 597-606
Citations number
84
Categorie Soggetti
Biology,"Molecular Biology & Genetics
Journal title
NATURE REVIEWS GENETICS
ISSN journal
14710056 → ACNP
Volume
2
Issue
8
Year of publication
2001
Pages
597 - 606
Database
ISI
SICI code
1471-0056(200108)2:8<597:TROSGE>2.0.ZU;2-8
Abstract
'Selfish genetic elements', such as transposons, homing endonucleases, meio tic drive chromosomes and heritable microorganisms, are common features of eukaryotes. However, their importance in the evolution of eukaryotic genome s is still controversial. In this review, we discuss these diverse elements and their potential importance in the evolution of genetic systems, adapta tion, and the extinction and birth of species.