Max Planck scientists observe jumping gene RNA moving between species
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Scientists from the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology detected circular intron RNA from the predatory bacterium Candidatus Velamenicoccus archaeovorus inside dead cells of the methane-producing archaeon Methanothrix soehngenii, suggesting a new route for jumping genes to spread between species. The finding challenges the assumption that these mobile genetic elements move mainly inside viruses or plasmids. Researchers made the discovery while studying a biogas-producing microbial community.
Circular RNA Transfer
Using sensitive nucleic acid probes, the team visualized intron RNA from Ca. Velamenicoccus archaeovorus inside dead M. soehngenii cells. The RNA formed a stable ring structure, which may protect it from degradation in the environment. This represents the first detection of intron RNA outside of a living cell. The predatory bacterium is thought to inject its RNA into prey cells, where it could later integrate into the host genome.
Jumping Gene Mechanism
Self-splicing introns are ribozymes that can excise themselves from RNA and insert into new DNA sites. Previously, horizontal transfer of these elements was attributed to viruses or plasmids. Jens Harder and colleagues' findings suggest a direct cell-to-cell route via released RNA. The study focused on a microbial enrichment culture dominated by Ca. Velamenicoccus archaeovorus.
Evolutionary Implications
Jumping genes are widespread across the tree of life and can rapidly introduce new traits. The discovery of extracellular intron RNA provides a plausible mechanism for gene transfer without biological vectors. This may accelerate adaptation in microbial communities, especially in extreme environments. The work was published in August 2026 by the Max Planck Institute.
What's Next
Further experiments will test whether the circular RNA can integrate into new host genomes outside of the laboratory setting. It remains uncertain how frequently such RNA-mediated transfers occur in natural ecosystems.
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Max Planck scientists observe jumping gene RNA moving between species
