Tec2, a second transposon-like element demonstrating developmentally programmed excision in Euplotes crassus

Abstract

The analysis of a repetitive DNA interruption of the micronuclear precursor to a 0.85-kb macronuclear gene in the hypotrich Euplotes crassus has led to the identification of a second transposon-like element named Tec2. Two copies of this element, one inserted into the other, compose the interruption. The Tec2 element resembles the previously characterized Tec1 element in overall size, copy number, length, and extreme terminal sequence of its inverted repeats and in the apparent use of a 5'-TA-3' target site. In addition, extrachromosomal circular forms of Tec2 appear in DNA isolated from cells undergoing macronuclear development at the same time and with the same conformation as extrachromosomal circular forms of Tec1. These similarities suggest that the Tec1 and Tec2 elements may be under the same type of regulation during macronuclear development.