Consistent association between beta DNA element and transfer RNA genes in Candida albicans

Abstract

The database of Candida albicans genome was screened to investigate the relationship between tRNA genes and retrotransposons. The results showed that, among 34 distinct families of LTR retrotransposons identified, only the beta element appeared to preferentially integrate near the tRNA genes. Specific site selection of the beta LTRs may have arisen from a coevolution process in which the host’s genome used to control their transposition. It is possible that, due to this coevolution mechanism, integration of the beta elements become mutualistic, although not proven, to the C. albicans genome by acting as a modulator in tRNA gene transcription.

Keywords

• beta
• LTR retrotransposon
• tRNA gene
• Candida albicans genome