Evolving genomic metaphors: A new look at the language of DNA

Recent genome-sequencing efforts have confirmed that traditional "good-citi zen" genes (those that encode functional RNA and protein molecules of obvio us benefit to the organism) constitute only a small fraction of the genomic populace in humans and other multicellular creatures. The rest of the DNA sequence includes an astonishing collection of noncoding regions, regulator y modules, deadbeat pseudogenes, legions of repetitive elements, and hosts of oft-shifty, self-interested nomads, renegades, and immigrants. To help v isualize functional operations in such intracellular genomic societies and to better encapsulate the evolutionary origins of complex genomes, new and evocative metaphors may be both entertaining and research-stimulating.