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Transposable Elements in Prokaryotes definitions

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  • Transposable Element
    A DNA sequence capable of moving to new positions within the genome, impacting genetic variability and adaptation.
  • Insertion Sequence
    A short bacterial DNA segment flanked by inverted repeats and encoding transposase, enabling genomic mobility.
  • Transposon
    A longer DNA segment that can relocate within the genome, often carrying additional genes such as those for drug resistance.
  • Composite Transposon
    A mobile DNA unit flanked by two insertion sequences, which provide the transposase needed for movement.
  • Simple Transposon
    A DNA segment bordered by inverted repeats and containing its own transposase gene, facilitating its movement.
  • Inverted Repeat
    A sequence of nucleotides at each end of certain mobile elements, essential for their recognition and movement.
  • Transposase
    An enzyme that catalyzes the movement of mobile DNA elements by recognizing specific repeat sequences.
  • Replicative Transposition
    A mechanism where a mobile DNA element is copied, with the new copy relocating while the original remains.
  • Conservative Transposition
    A process where a mobile DNA element is excised and inserted into a new site, maintaining a constant copy number.
  • Drug Resistance
    A trait often spread among bacteria by mobile DNA elements, enabling survival against antibiotics.
  • Genome
    The complete set of genetic material in a cell, subject to rearrangement by mobile DNA elements.
  • Superbug
    A bacterium with high antibiotic resistance, often due to gene transfer via mobile DNA elements.
  • R Plasmid
    A circular DNA molecule in bacteria that frequently carries mobile elements conferring antibiotic resistance.