Unorthodox mRNA start site to extend the highly structured leader of retrotransposon Tto1 mRNA increases transposition rate.

Retroelement RNAs serve as templates for both translation and reverse transcription into extrachromosomal DNA. DNA copies may be inserted into the host genome to multiply element sequences. This transpositional activity of retroelements is usually restricted to specific conditions, particularly to conditions that impose stress on the host organism.

Biochemical analysis of long terminal repeat retrotransposons.

A brief survey of the retrotransposition cycle is given with emphasis on intermediary steps and their identification by biochemical analysis. References include some older key publications that may not be easily accessible via electronic databases. Methods for enrichment of viruslike particles from plant material and from yeast are described.