Abstract
The AGEing model proposes that intrabaraminic diversification occurred because of the action of transposable and repetitive elements, called Altruistic Genetic Elements (AGEs). Since the model was proposed in 1999, much new evidence has come to light, some of which supports the model and some of which calls for a significant revision of the model. Evidence of AGE/gene association, AGE horizontal transfer, and AGE-induced genetic changes all support the original AGEing model. Evidence of extensive genomic rearrangement, bacterial plasmids, and AGE transposition control requires substantial modification of the AGEing model. A new model of diversification based on these evidences will be introduced and explained.