mobile genetic elements ne demek?

Mobile genetic elements, or transposable elements, are segments of DNA that can move around within the genome of an organism. They were first discovered in the 1940s in maize by Barbara McClintock, who later won a Nobel Prize for her discovery.

There are two main types of mobile genetic elements: DNA transposons and retrotransposons. DNA transposons move from one location to another within the genome by a process called "cut-and-paste" transposition. Retrotransposons, on the other hand, move by a process called "copy-and-paste" transposition, in which they are first transcribed into RNA and then reverse transcribed back into DNA before being inserted into a new location in the genome.

Mobile genetic elements play important roles in evolution and genetic diversity. They can cause mutations when they insert into a new location within the genome, and they can also promote gene duplication and the creation of new genes. However, they can also cause genetic diseases and are sometimes responsible for the spread of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.

Researchers are still studying the mechanisms by which mobile genetic elements move around within the genome and the implications of these movements.