Short interspersed nuclear element
Short Interspersed Nuclear Element (SINE)
Short Interspersed Nuclear Elements (SINEs) are a type of transposable element that can be found in various eukaryotic organisms. Pronounced as /ʃɔːrt ˌɪntəˈspɜːrsd ˈnjuːkliər ˈɛlɪmənt/, the term SINEs was first coined in the late 20th century.
Etymology
The term "Short Interspersed Nuclear Element" is derived from the nature of these elements. They are "short" in comparison to other transposable elements, "interspersed" throughout the genome, and are "nuclear" as they are found within the nucleus of a cell. The word "element" refers to their status as a fundamental component of the genome.
Definition
SINEs are short DNA sequences, typically 100 to 300 base pairs long, that represent reverse-transcribed RNA molecules, which are integrated at new locations in the genome. They are one of the two most-common types of transposon, the other being Long Interspersed Nuclear Elements (LINEs).
Function
While the exact function of SINEs is not fully understood, they are known to play a role in gene regulation. Some SINEs are transcribed into non-coding RNAs that can regulate gene expression. They are also thought to contribute to genetic diversity and evolution.
Related Terms
- Transposable element
- Eukaryotic
- Transposon
- Long Interspersed Nuclear Elements (LINEs)
- Non-coding RNA
- Gene expression
- Genetic diversity
- Evolution
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Short interspersed nuclear element
- Wikipedia's article - Short interspersed nuclear element
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