Bacterial group I introns: mobile RNA catalysts
Loading...
Date
2014-03-10
Authors
Hausner, Georg
Hafez, Mohamed
Edgell, David R
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
Abstract
Group I introns are intervening sequences that have invaded tRNA, rRNA and protein coding genes in bacteria and their phages. The ability of group I introns to self-splice from their host transcripts, by acting as ribozymes, potentially renders their insertion into genes phenotypically neutral. Some group I introns are mobile genetic elements due to encoded homing endonuclease genes that function in DNA-based mobility pathways to promote spread to intronless alleles. Group I introns have a limited distribution among bacteria and the current assumption is that they are benign selfish elements, although some introns and homing endonucleases are a source of genetic novelty as they have been co-opted by host genomes to provide regulatory functions. Questions regarding the origin and maintenance of group I introns among the bacteria and phages are also addressed.
Description
Keywords
Citation
Mobile DNA. 2014 Mar 10;5(1):8