Identification of a potential RNA intermediate for transposition of the LINE-like element I factor in Drosophila melanogaster

M C CHABOISSIER, I BUSSEAU, J PROSSER, D J FINNEGAN, A BUCHETON, David Finnegan

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The I factor, a transposable element related to mammalian LINEs, controls the I-R system of hybrid dysgenesis in Drosophila melanogaster. It transposes at
high frequency in the germ-line of the female progeny of crosses between females of the reactive class of strains and males of the inducer class. The structure and DNA sequence of the I factor suggest that it transposes by reverse transcription of an RNA intermediate. Northern blot and Si mapping experiments show that a full-length RNA of the I factor is synthesized specifically in the conditions of which I factors transpose. This RNA has all characteristics of a transposition intermediate. It is only found in the ovaries of dysgenic females suggesting that I factor activity is restricted to this tissue because of regulation at the level of the initiation of transcription or RNA stability.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)3557-3563
Number of pages7
JournalEMBO Journal
Volume9
Issue number11
Publication statusPublished - Nov 1990

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Identification of a potential RNA intermediate for transposition of the LINE-like element I factor in Drosophila melanogaster'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this