Question

What are transposable elements that transpose through an RNA intermediate called?

Answer 1

Retrotransposons are transposable elements that transpose through an RNA intermediate. They include autonomous and non-autonomous classes. Retrotransposons mobilize by the transcription of RNA at one locus, followed by reverse transcription and integration of the cDNA back into genomic DNA.

Step-by-step explanation:

Retrotransposons are transposable elements that transpose through an RNA intermediate. They include two major classes: the autonomous class I RNA transposons (such as LTR retrotransposons and non-LTR retrotransposons) and the non-autonomous retrotransposons (known as SINEs or retroposons). Retrotransposons mobilize by the transcription of RNA at one locus, followed by reverse transcription and integration of the cDNA back into genomic DNA at a different location.