Transposable element splicing reveals a tumor-enriched class of gene-independent transcripts.

TEtrans, a tumor-enriched, gene-independent class of TE-derived transcripts, predominantly composed of TE sequences, are identified across pan-cancer samples.

• Why it matters: Reactivation of transposable elements (TEs) in tumors is widespread but poorly characterized at the transcript level, limiting understanding of their role in cancer progression and immune response.
• What they did: The study systematically analyzed TE-derived splicing across pan-cancer samples, defining TEtrans, which initiate within TEs and are associated with stemness, inflammation, and tumor growth, including a retrovirus-derived subset.
• The result: TEtrans include shared tumor antigens that trigger cytotoxic T cell responses and promote tumor control, revealing TE-derived transcripts as potential oncogenic drivers and immunotherapeutic targets.