Songsak Sakaew

pp. 569 - 575

Abstract

In this study, the database of Candida albicans genome was screened to investigate the relationship
between tRNA genes and retrotransposons. The results showed that, among 34 distinct families of LTR
retrotransposons identified, only the beta element appeared to preferentially integrate near the tRNA genes.
Specific site selection of the beta LTRs may be arisen from a coevolution process in which the host’s genome
used to control their transposition. It is possible that, due to this coevolution mechanism, integration of the
beta elements become mutualistic, although not proven, to the C. albicans genome by acting as a modulator
in tRNA gene transcription.

Keywords

• beta
• LTR retrotransposon
• tRNA gene
• Candida albicans genome