Poster: MIGL - a database for identifying the mechanisms of intron gain and loss

It is known that introns may be gained or lost throughout evolution. However, the mechanisms underlying these events remain enigmatic. Introns have been shown to affect nearly every aspect of gene expression. Therefore, it is pertinent to understand how introns may be gained or lost. At least 9 mechanisms of intron gain and loss have been proposed. However, most lack unambiguous evidence, while others have not yet been shown to occur. Because identifying intron gains and losses that appear to have occurred via a previously proposed mechanism is currently the primary method of evaluating the viability of these mechanisms, it is essential to know precisely how frequently these events have occurred. Nonetheless, there has been discordance among recent literature in regards to the number of intron gain and loss events that have been identified with a known mechanistic origin. In order to reach a consensus among researchers, promote discussion and better organize this field of research, we have developed a database, MIGL, to organize and catalogue all intron gains and losses that appear to have occurred via a previously proposed mechanism. This database will prove useful in identifying the mechanisms of intron gain and loss. MIGL can be accessed at: http://cpath.him.pitt.edu/intron/index.php.