P-element

A P-element is a type of "jumping gene" found in fruit flies (Drosophila) that can move from one part of the DNA to another. It’s a piece of DNA that can cut itself out of one location and insert into another, which can sometimes disrupt how genes work. Scientists study P-elements because they help understand genetic mobility, gene regulation, and are used as tools in genetic engineering. Their ability to insert into DNA makes them important for research and developing genetic techniques.