JUMPING GENE Meaning and
Definition
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A jumping gene, also known as a transposable element or a transposon, is a mobile segment of DNA that has the ability to move or "jump" around the genome of an organism. Jumping genes were discovered by Barbara McClintock in the 1940s while studying corn plants, for which she was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1983. These genes have the unique capability to change their location within the genome, allowing them to "transpose" from one DNA site to another.
Jumping genes can be classified into two main types: class I retrotransposons and class II DNA transposons. Retrotransposons copy themselves via a process similar to reverse transcription, in which RNA is first transcribed from the DNA and then reverse-transcribed back into DNA that can be inserted into a new genomic location. DNA transposons, on the other hand, physically cut themselves out of the genome and reinsert themselves elsewhere.
The movement of jumping genes can have significant consequences for the genome of an organism. They can disrupt important genes or regulatory regions, leading to genetic diseases or alteration of gene expression. Additionally, the insertion or excision of transposable elements can induce genetic mutations, potentially driving evolutionary changes. They are also believed to play a role in the diversification of species and the emergence of new traits.
Overall, jumping genes are fascinating genetic elements that have played a pivotal role in shaping the genomes of all living organisms and continue to have a profound impact on genetic diversity and evolution.
Common Misspellings for JUMPING GENE
- humping gene
- numping gene
- mumping gene
- kumping gene
- iumping gene
- uumping gene
- jymping gene
- jhmping gene
- jjmping gene
- jimping gene
- j8mping gene
- j7mping gene
- junping gene
- jukping gene
- jujping gene
- jumoing gene
- jumling gene
- jum-ing gene
- jum0ing gene
Etymology of JUMPING GENE
The term "jumping gene" is derived from the scientific field of genetics and specifically refers to mobile genetic elements called transposons. These transposons have the ability to move, or "jump", to different locations within the genome, hence the name "jumping gene". The term was first coined by American geneticist Barbara McClintock in the 1940s when she discovered these mobile elements in maize plants. McClintock's groundbreaking research demonstrated the dynamic nature of genetic material, challenging the conventional view of genetic inheritance as entirely static.
Similar spelling words for JUMPING GENE
