Ribosomal DNA

The ribosomal DNA (abbreviated rDNA) consists of a group of ribosomal RNA encoding genes and related regulatory elements, and is widespread in similar configuration in all domains of life. The ribosomal DNA encodes the non-coding ribosomal RNA, integral structural elements in the assembly of ribosomes, its importance making it the most abundant section of RNA found in cells of eukaryotes.[1] Additionally, these segments includes regulatory sections, such as an promotor specific to the RNA polymerase I, as well as both transcribed and non-transcribed spacer segments.

Due to their high importance in the assembly of ribosomes for protein biosynthesis, the rDNA genes are generally highly conserved in molecular evolution. The number of copies can vary considerably per species.[1] Ribosomal DNA is widely used for phylogenetic studies.[2][3]

  1. ^ a b Cite error: The named reference Warmerdam2019 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ Hillis DM, Dixon MT (December 1991). "Ribosomal DNA: Molecular Evolution and Phylogenetic Inference". The Quarterly Review of Biology. 66 (4): 411–53. doi:10.1086/417338. PMID 1784710. S2CID 32027097.
  3. ^ Weisburg WG, Barns SM, Pelletier DA, Lane DJ (January 1991). "16S ribosomal DNA amplification for phylogenetic study". Journal of Bacteriology. 173 (2): 697–703. doi:10.1128/jb.173.2.697-703.1991. PMC 207061. PMID 1987160.