Year: 2016
Type: review
Abstract: Meiosis, the mechanism of creating haploid gametes, is a complex cellular process observed across sexually reproducing organisms. Fundamental to meiosis is the process of homologous recombination, whereby DNA double-strand breaks are introduced into the genome and are subsequently repaired to generate either noncrossovers or crossovers. Although homologous recombination is essential for chromosome pairing during prophase I, the resulting crossovers are critical for maintaining homolog interactions and enabling accurate segregation at the first meiotic division. Thus, the placement, timing, and frequency of crossover formation must be exquisitely controlled. In this review, we discuss the proteins involved in crossover formation, the process of their formation and designation, and the rules governing crossovers, all within the context of the important landmarks of prophase I. We draw together crossover designation data across organisms, analyze their evolutionary divergence, and propose a universal model for crossover regulation.
Source: Annual Review of Genetics
Authors: Stephen Gray, Paula E. Cohen
Institution: Cornell University
Language: English
Topic: DNA Repair Mechanisms
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
Awards: The MLH1-MLH3 Heterodimer in Mammalian Meiotic Recombination and Gametogenesis, G6665737010, Genetic Pathways Effecting Crossover Control and Meiotic Recombination in Mammals, Small RNA Pathways in Mammalian Gametogenesis, Regulation of MutL-gamma function in mediating crossing over in mammalian meiosis
OpenAlex ID: W2343201819