Post by Alan on Jan 12, 2010 22:28:52 GMT -5
Think of Transposons as natures way of producing natural GMO's. There are different phases and methods and some are effected by virus material and RNA replicating itself as DNA. Those interested in corn breeding and wondering why stable populations without having been outcrossed spontaniously show up with new forms will find understanding Transposons and Somatic Mutations very helpful.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transposon
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somatic_mutation
As an example, my new tomato Meg White is likely the result of Transposons causing a somatic mutation in leaf type.
Think of Transposons as agents of evolution, it will make more sense.
Here is an interesting article about a sea slug that produces Chlorophyll (natural not GMO) www.wired.com/wiredscience/2010/01/green-sea-slug
It is unconfirmed as of yet, but after researching this a bit more it seems that some scientists believe that Viral retrotransposons have contributed to this amazing animal.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transposon
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somatic_mutation
As an example, my new tomato Meg White is likely the result of Transposons causing a somatic mutation in leaf type.
Think of Transposons as agents of evolution, it will make more sense.
Here is an interesting article about a sea slug that produces Chlorophyll (natural not GMO) www.wired.com/wiredscience/2010/01/green-sea-slug
It is unconfirmed as of yet, but after researching this a bit more it seems that some scientists believe that Viral retrotransposons have contributed to this amazing animal.