The Human THAP9 Gene Encodes an Active P -Element DNA Transposase

Abstract

Mobilizing Transposable Elements Transposable elements are parasitic DNA elements that can jump around the genome. They make up large portions of eukaryotic genomes (up to 50% of the human genome). In the short term, transposable elements can generate mutations and cause large-scale damage; but, in the long term, they can drive evolution. Majumdar et al. (p. 446 ) show that the human THAP9 gene (hTh9), which contains a THAP DNA binding domain also found in the Drosophila P -element transposase, is capable of mobilizing P -elements in Drosophila cells. The hTH9 gene also caused the excision of plasmid-borne Drosophila P -elements in human cells. Furthermore, hTh9 is able to nick P -element DNA and direct its transposition into the human genome.