Model for the evolutionary expansion of human gene regulatory networks mediated by transposable elements (IMAGE)

Kindai University

Model for the evolutionary expansion of human gene regulatory networks mediated by transposable elements

Caption

The schematic shows the evolutionary acquisition of TEs and their cis-regulatory functions. A subset of TEs, such as MER51 and MER49, carrying binding motifs for Sox2 and Brn2, respectively, was amplified in the genome of the simian ancestor. The TE-derived Sox2- and Brn2-binding elements gained enhancer function acting during neuronal lineage commitment, which was previously unknown. The evolutionary expansion of TEs, coupled with the gain of enhancer function, diversified the gene regulation underlying neuronal formation in humans.

Credit

Professor Hidenori Nishihara from Kindai University

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