Uninvited guests: how transposable elements take advantage of Drosophila germline stem cells, and how stem cells fight back.

Abstract

Transposable elements (TEs) are mobile genetic parasites that spread through host genomes by replicating in germline cells. New TE copies that arise in the genomes of germline stem cells (GSCs) are of particular value, because they are potentially transmitted to multiple offspring through the plethora of gametes arising from the same progenitor GSC. However, the fidelity of GSC genomes is also of utmost importance to the host in ensuring the production of abundant and fit offspring. Here we review tactics that TEs employ to replicate in Drosophila female GSCs, as well as mechanisms those cells use to defend against TEs. We also discuss the relationship between transposition and GSC loss, which is arbitrated through reduced signaling for self renewal, increased signaling for differentiation, and DNA damage response pathways.