Retrotransposons are evolutionarily widespread genetic elements that replicate through reverse transcription of an RNA copy and integrate the product DNA into new sites in the host genome. A transposable element that undergoes transposition from one place to another in the genome of a cell by forming an intermediate RNA transcript from which a copy of the DNA of the transposable element is made using a reverse transcriptase and inserted into the genome at a new location. Retrotransposons are found in all eukaryotes but not in prokaryotes. They comprise significant fractions of metazoan genomes. Retrotransposons usually establish long-term associations with the host genome unlike transposons which establish short term associations. These insertions can disrupt host genome function, retrotransposon activity is controlled at transcriptional and post transcriptional levels. Despite their potential deleterious effects, retrotransposons perform important genomic functions including roles in the centromeres and telomeres of some species and contributions to genome adaptation with changing environments.

Shashank Katariya

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