Dr. Cantrell studies the evolution and function of mammalian retrotransposons, particularly LINE-1 elements, and the effects of these elements on genome evolution. In one project, he is exploring the potential connection between extinction of LINE-1 activity and an unprecedented amplification of an endogenous retrovirus family. He has also initiated studies which address the surprising hypothesis that LINE-1 elements may be involved in X chromosome inactivation in mammals.

Selected Publications