Once considered merely `selfish' or `parasitic' DNA, transposable elements are today recognized as being of major biological significance. Not only are these el

During the last 50 years, the perception oftransposable elements (TEs) has changed considerably from selfish DNA to sequences that may contribute significantly

The transposable genetic elements, or transposons, as they are now known, have had a tumultuous history. Discovered in the mid-20th century by Barbara McClintoc

These novelties, among others, are examined in this book in relation to their general significance for evolution, emphasising their human relevance.

Documents the remarkable mobility of DNA in procaryotic and eucaryotic genomes: the ability of various DNA segments to move to new sites, to invert, and to unde