Retrotransposon 3S18 forms self-protective aggregates and prolongs mid-oogenesis

Transposons are prevalent across nearly all species due to their capacity to mobilize in the host genome. However, their products may begin to affect the host before integration occurs. Here, we identified that the activation of transposons results in significantly smaller mid-stage oocytes and prolonged mid-oogenesis of Drosophila. Notably, one specific long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposon, 3S18, primarily contributes to this phenotype. We found that 3S18 mRNA and its integrase form micrometer-scaled ribonucleoprotein aggregates at cell-cell bridges during these stages. Interestingly, mutants that suppress the formation of these RNP aggregates substantially reduce 3S18 mRNA levels, suggesting that 3S18 aggregates serve functional importance in protecting the retrotransposon products. Live imaging reveals that the accumulation of 3S18 RNP aggregates obstructs host material transportation, resulting in prolonged mid-oogenesis. Finally, forcefully extending oogenesis significantly enhances 3S18 propagation. Our study highlights the unique characteristics of 3S18 and its impact on host development. It may shed light on studies of other parasitic elements, including viruses.