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Introduction: Class II DNA transposable elements account for significant portions of eukaryotic genomes and contribute to genome evolution through their mobilization. To escape inactivating mutations and persist in the host genome over evolutionary time, these elements must be mobilized enough to result in additional copies. These elements utilize a “cut and paste” transposition mechanism that does not intrinsically include replication. However, elements such as the rice derived mPing element have been observed to increase in copy number over time.Methods: We used yeast transposition assays to test several parameters that could affect the excision and insertion of mPing and its related elements. This included development of novel strategies for measuring element insertion and sequencing insertion sites.Results: Increased transposase protein expression increased the mobilization frequency of a small (430 bp) element, while overexpression inhibition was observed for a larger (7,126 bp) element. Smaller element size increased both the frequency of excision and insertion of these elements. The effect of yeast ploidy on element excision, insertion, and copy number provided evidence that homology dependent repair allows for replicative transposition. These elements were found to preferentially insert into yeast rDNA repeat sequences.Discussion: Identifying the parameters that influence transposition of these elements will facilitate their use for gene discovery and genome editing. These insights in to the behavior of these elements also provide important clues into how class II transposable elements have shaped eukaryotic genomes.

The authors of this article are students at The University of Alabama (UA) pursuing various undergraduate and graduate degrees. The majority of our academic programs are in the Culverhouse College of Business or Manderson Graduate School of Business. In the spring of 2021, we each enrolled in a data visualization course taught by our faculty sponsor, Dr. Chapman Greer. Through the course, we developed technical and design skills to analyze, visualize, and communicate data effectively. We employed these skills in creating a database that drives a Tableau visualization of Experiential Learning Opportunities (ELOs) at UA.