New Ther1-derived SINE Squam3 in Scaled Reptiles

Abstract Background SINEs compose a significant part of animal genomes and are used to study the evolution of taxa. Despite significant advances in SINE studies in vertebrates and higher eukaryotes in general, their own evolution is poorly understood. Results We have found and described in detail a new SINE family Squam3 specific for scaled reptiles (Squamata). The subfamilies of this SINE demonstrate different distribution in the genomes of squamates, which together with the data on similar SINEs in the tuatara allowed us to propose a scenario of their evolution in the context of reptilian evolution. Conclusions Ancestral SINEs preserved in small numbers in most genomes can give rise to taxon-specific SINE families. Analysis of this aspect of SINEs can shed light on the history and mechanisms of SINE variation in reptilian genomes.