Transposable elements in plants: Silencing, activation and roles

Transposable Elements (TEs), as mobile genetic elements, widely exist in almost all eukaryotic genomes and account for a significant proportion. However, due to mutation accumulation and epigenetic regulation, the vast majority of TEs have permanently lost their transposable ability or remain dormant for extended periods, and only a few have activity in the current genome. Active TEs can introduce novel insertions into the genome, serving as a crucial source of genetic variation. They not only influence plant growth and development but also enhance the adaptability of plants to the environment. Moreover, TEs have valuable applications in various aspects of genetic research. Studies have demonstrated that external factors such as biotic stress, abiotic stress, tissue culture, and hybridization can activate their mobility. This paper reviews the current research progress of TE activity, focusing on the regulatory mechanisms of their activity, the diverse impacts of active TEs on plants, their applications in genetic research, and the primary method employed in studying TE activity, aiming to gain a profound understanding of the interactions between TEs and host genomes, offer a comprehensive view of genome dynamics and evolution, and promote the wider application of TEs in genetic research.