Origin, evolution, and distribution of different groups of non-LTR retrotransposons among eukaryotes

Abstract

Non-LTR retrotransposons are an ancient group of retroelements. Twenty-one clades are distinguished today among non-LTR retrotransposons. The presence of different clades in the genome characterizes the diversity of non-LTR retrotransposons of the organism. This review presents a general picture of the evolution and distribution of different clades of non-LTR retrotransposons among the main taxa of eukaryotic organisms: protozoa, plants, fungi, and metazoa. Introduction in the analysis of new taxa and the use of new bioinformatic and experimental approaches can significantly extend our knowledge about non-LTR retrotransposons and their role in the evolution and functioning of eukaryotic genomes. © 2009 Pleiades Publishing, Ltd.