Characterization of Two Transposable Elements and an Ultra-Conserved Element Isolated in the Genome of (Squamata, Lacertidae).

Transposable elements (TEs) constitute a considerable fraction of eukaryote genomes representing a major source of genetic variability. We describe two DNA sequences isolated in the lizard , here named Zv516 and Zv817. Both sequences are single-copy nuclear sequences, including a truncation of two transposable elements (TEs), SINE Squam1 in Zv516 and a Tc1/Mariner-like DNA transposon in Zv817.

Transposable Elements and Stress in Vertebrates: An Overview.

Since their identification as genomic regulatory elements, Transposable Elements (TEs) were considered, at first, molecular parasites and later as an important source of genetic diversity and regulatory innovations. In vertebrates in particular, TEs have been recognized as playing an important role in major evolutionary transitions and biodiversity. Moreover, in the last decade, a significant number of papers has been published highlighting a correlation between TE activity and exposition to environmental stresses and dietary factors.

Dynamic Characterization of the Biomechanical Behaviour of Bovine Ovarian Cortical Tissue and Its Short-Term Effect on Ovarian Tissue and Follicles.

The ovary is a dynamic mechanoresponsive organ. In vitro, tissue biomechanics was reported to affect follicle activation mainly through the Hippo pathway. Only recently, ovary responsiveness to mechanical signals was exploited for reproductive purposes.

Polystyrene nanoparticles may affect cell mitosis and compromise early embryo development in mammals.

A great interest surrounds the development of nanoparticles (NPs) for biomedical applications such as drug delivery and cancer therapy. However, the interplay between nanoscale materials and biological systems and the associated hazards have not been completely clarified yet. In this study, bovine oviductal epithelial cells (BOECs) and embryos were used as in vitro models to investigate whether cell mitosis and early mammalian embryo development could be affected by the exposure to polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles.

From Fish Eggs to Fish Name: Caviar Species Discrimination by COIBar-RFLP, an Efficient Molecular Approach to Detect Fraud in the Caviar Trade.

The demand for caviar is growing as is its price on the market. Due to the decline of true caviar production from sturgeons, eggs from other fish species and other animals have been used as substitutes for caviar. The labels on these products should indicate the species from which the eggs were derived, but the label can be misleading in some cases.