Mitchell F Grinwald, Wesley N Saintilnord, Ting Wang
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) - long considered 'junk DNA' - challenge the binary of threat and therapeutic opportunity in cancer. Their reactivation is not a singular event but a convergence of evolutionary legacy, regulatory disruption, and technological insight. This review synthesizes a growing body of work that positions TEs as both catalysts and antagonists of the tumor state. Across regulatory control, viral mimicry, protein-coding potential, and antigen presentation, TEs blur the line between harm and utility. Each example reflects a broader theme: context defines consequence. By tracing historical shifts and technological advances, we argue for an integrated view: one where TEs are not just anomalies, but dynamic agents in the complexity of cancer.
期刊介绍:
Launched in 1985, Trends in Genetics swiftly established itself as a "must-read" for geneticists, offering concise, accessible articles covering a spectrum of topics from developmental biology to evolution. This reputation endures, making TiG a cherished resource in the genetic research community. While evolving with the field, the journal now embraces new areas like genomics, epigenetics, and computational genetics, alongside its continued coverage of traditional subjects such as transcriptional regulation, population genetics, and chromosome biology.
Despite expanding its scope, the core objective of TiG remains steadfast: to furnish researchers and students with high-quality, innovative reviews, commentaries, and discussions, fostering an appreciation for advances in genetic research. Each issue of TiG presents lively and up-to-date Reviews and Opinions, alongside shorter articles like Science & Society and Spotlight pieces. Invited from leading researchers, Reviews objectively chronicle recent developments, Opinions provide a forum for debate and hypothesis, and shorter articles explore the intersection of genetics with science and policy, as well as emerging ideas in the field. All articles undergo rigorous peer-review.