Photo Report on the Interference Between Viruses and Transposable Elements
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The genomes of all organisms harbor parasites known as transposable elements, which are fragments of DNA capable of moving from one region of the genome to another. When active, they threaten genome integrity by causing mutations. Much like antibodies in mammals, fruit flies possess a defense mechanism—RNA interference—which allows them to neutralize these transposable elements while also defending against viral infections.
But what happens when individuals are exposed to both assailants simultaneously? Does one line of defense take precedence over the other? To answer this question, scientists at LBBE are using fruit flies to study these genomic conflicts and their evolutionary consequences.
Discover the CNRS Images report here.