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The multiple origins of human Alu sequences

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Summary

I have analyzed a collection of published human Alu sequences. The compiled sequences show several unexpected features, including a uniform pattern of divergence from their consensus sequence, a mutual divergence that is not correlated with their age, and common features in the genomic DNA flanking the 5′ ends of the elements. I suggest that the Alu family of sequences derives from a large pool of precursors and not from a single precursor similar to the family consensus sequence, and that new elements integrate into the genome selectively at oligo-A-rich sites.

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  1. MEDIGEN Project, Department of Medicine, Stanford Medical School, 94304, Stanford, California, USA

    William Bains

  2. Department of Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, BA2 7AY, Bath, UK

    William Bains

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Bains, W. The multiple origins of human Alu sequences. J Mol Evol 23, 189–199 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02115575

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02115575

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