RREs

RREs, or Retrotransposon-derived Regulatory Elements, are a class of genomic sequences that originated from transposable elements, specifically retrotransposons, and have been co-opted by the host genome to perform regulatory functions. Retrotransposons are mobile genetic elements that replicate via an RNA intermediate and insert new copies of themselves into the genome. Over evolutionary time, many of these elements have become immobile and fragmented, but some of their components, such as promoters and enhancers, have been retained and repurposed.

These RREs often contribute to the regulation of gene expression by influencing transcription. They can interact with transcription factors and other regulatory proteins, thereby modulating the activity of nearby genes. The insertion of retrotransposons into genomes has been a significant force in shaping genome evolution, and RREs represent a fascinating example of how seemingly parasitic DNA sequences can be integrated into the host's regulatory network. They are found in various eukaryotic organisms, including mammals, and play roles in diverse biological processes. Studying RREs provides insights into genome evolution, gene regulation, and the dynamic interplay between mobile elements and their host genomes. Their presence can sometimes be associated with species-specific gene expression patterns.