Continuous adaptation through genetic communication - a putative role for cell-free DNA.

INTRODUCTION: The virtosome fraction of cell-free DNA, being newly synthesised, capable of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) and subsequent genomic incorporation and expression, may play crucial roles in the biological functions of higher organisms. In order to unlock the full potential of cell-free DNA as a biomarker, we need to fully understand its biological roles.

AREAS COVERED: Metabolic DNA is possibly the precursor to the bulk of cell-free DNA, which is actively released as lipoprotein complexes. These released lipoprotein complexes are referred to as virtosomes. Research suggests that acquired characteristics, including physical and behavioural traits can be inherited in contrast to the neo-Darwinian dogma. We consider the virtosome fraction of cell-free DNA to be involved in this process. We suggest that at least one process of endoreplication is responsible for the synthesis of metabolic DNA and that this DNA follows apoptotic-like breakdown prior to release.

EXPERT OPINION: If individual cellular genomes are capable of acquiring and donating the active parts of their genomes, selection of viable genetic information occurs not only through natural selection of whole organisms, but occurs continuously at a subgenomic level. The process of homeostatic adaptation in higher organisms is influenced by the characteristics of HGT.