Question

Which of these lines of evidence supports the hypothesis that transposable elements (TEs) play a vital role in explaining domain shuffling and the origin of new genes?

A. We see TEs in many species from rice and corn to flies
B. The repetitive sequences we see lack introns or adjacent regulatory regions, which we would expect to see if they had their origins in unequal crossing over and duplications
C. Repetitive sequences are not always adjacent to the original genes
D. Retrotransposons like LINE elements can copt adjacent exons and move them to a new location, along with the transposon itself

Answer 1

LINE elements, a type of transposable element, support the theory of domain shuffling as they can transfer adjacent exons to new locations, altering genetic makeup and creating new gene functions, underscoring the significant evolutionary role of TEs in adaptability and genetic diversity.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the lines of evidence that support the hypothesis that transposable elements (TEs) play a vital role in domain shuffling and the origin of new genes, the most fitting is the ability of certain TEs, such as retrotransposons like LINE elements, to copy adjacent exons and move them to a new location. This mechanism not only indicates how TEs can directly contribute to the genomic rearrangement but also to the creation of new gene functions.

Furthermore, the presence of transposable elements in various species and their conservation speaks to their early evolution, emphasizing their importance in genetic diversity and adaptability across life forms. This fact ties into the idea that transposition has been an integral part of life for long periods, thereby enhancing organismal adaptability and evolution. The accumulation and diversity of TEs indicate their continuous influence from their first appearance in the genomes up to the present.