Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) represent the single largest component of numerous eukaryotic genomes, and their activity and dispersal constitute an important force fostering evolutionary innovation. The horizontal transfer of TEs (HTT) between eukaryotic species is a common and widespread phenomenon that has had a profound impact on TE dynamics and, consequently, on the evolutionary trajectory of many species' lineages. However, the mechanisms promoting HTT remain largely unknown. In this article, we argue that network theory combined with functional ecology provides a robust conceptual framework and tools to delineate how complex interactions between diverse organisms may act in synergy to promote HTTs.
Highlights
Horizontal DNA transfer, or the passage of genetic material between organisms by means other than reproduction, while commonly observed in bacteria [1,2], has long been considered rare between multicellular eukaryotic species, with negligible impact on their evolution [3]
In complement to ecological theories of biodiversity already considered in previous studies, we propose that network theory combined with functional ecology provides an adequate conceptual framework and a toolbox to formalize and analyze, from large datasets, the multiplicity of mechanisms and routes underlying horizontal transfer of transposable element (TE) (HTT)
We argue that the conceptual framework and methodological tools provided by network theory can shed new light on the process of HTT
Summary
Horizontal DNA transfer, or the passage of genetic material between organisms by means other than reproduction, while commonly observed in bacteria [1,2], has long been considered rare between multicellular eukaryotic species, with negligible impact on their evolution [3].
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