Mobile DNA
Gruppenleiter
DNA transposons are mobile genes transposing with low intrinsic activity. These elements are self-regulated and interact with cellular host factors without producing serious levels of genetic damage. Transposons offer a new model to study DNA recombination in higher organisms, as well as host-parasite interaction. Transposons are also natural gene delivery vehicles that are being developed as genetic tools. Our laboratory is following the strategy of understanding the mechanism of transposition and its regulation and translate this knowledge to derive transposon-based genetic tools for genome manipulation or for gene therapy.