Moveable Elements in The Human Genome: Status of Research.

The first moveable DNA elements to be studied at the molecular level were the transposable elements found in prokaryotes. Although several different types are now known, they all share two properties: first, the DNA within the element encodes a gene or genes that are required for transposition, and, second, specific DNA sequences are repeated in inverted orientation at the two ends of the element and are required for transposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]