How mutagenic are transposable elements?

Transposable elements have a mutation rate of 1.6 × 10^-3 gains per copy per generation, which is an order of magnitude higher than the loss rate of 1.9 × 10^-4.

• Why it matters: Understanding the mutagenic potential of TEs is crucial because they generate genetic variation that has been historically overlooked, challenging the view of TEs as merely 'junk' DNA.
• What they did: The authors aggregated direct estimates of TE mutation rates from the literature, focusing on comparable studies to quantify TE mutagenicity and discuss the challenges in rate comparison.
• The result: TE movement significantly contributes to genetic variation, suggesting TEs should be recognized as endogenous mutagens and integrated more centrally into mutation research.