Evolution of tRNA Gene Arrays in Entamoeba
Author Information
Author(s): Tawari Blessing, Ali Ibne Karim M., Scott Claire, Quail Michael A., Berriman Matthew, Hall Neil, Clark C. Graham
Primary Institution: Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
What are the origins and evolution of the unique tRNA gene organization in the genus Entamoeba?
Conclusion
The study found that tRNA arrays are a common feature in Entamoeba species, with significant variations in their organization and structure across different species.
Supporting Evidence
- Entamoeba histolytica has a unique organization of tRNA genes that is not found in closely related species.
- Genome surveys revealed that E. dispar shares a similar tRNA array organization with E. histolytica.
- Phylogenetic relationships among species correlate with the similarities in their tRNA gene organization.
Takeaway
This study looked at how certain genes in tiny organisms called Entamoeba are organized and how they change over time. It found that these genes are often grouped together in special ways.
Methodology
Genome surveys were conducted on five species of Entamoeba, analyzing the organization of tRNA genes and their intergenic regions.
Limitations
The genome coverage in each case is low (approximately 0.5×), which may limit the detection of some tRNA genes.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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