|
Retrotransposons are a type of genomic element that can move from one location to another through reverse transcription of their RNA transposition intermediates. Retrotransposons are capable of amplification by reverse transcription in the genome. Approximately 42 percent of the human genome is composed of retrotransposons. In the past, retrotransposons were regarded as 'junk' DNA sequences capable of compromising genomic integrity and causing damage to the genome. Nonetheless, new studies of retrotransposons have found various putative roles and associated processes. Retrotransposons play a crucial role in gene expression regulation by providing cis-regulatory regions and influencing RNA splicing. Although numerous studies have been conducted on retrotransposons, the primary focus of DNA study is currently on coding sequences. Insufficient knowledge exists on the function of retrotransposons and their generated sequences. As a result, retrotransposons in the human genome remain a topic requiring additional research. In order to provide a fuller understanding of the roles and related mechanisms of retrotransposons, this study will conduct a literature review of the current studies of retrotransposons, including their genome-beneficial silencing mechanisms and functions.
|
