Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Crossover interference is a phenomenon that affects the number and positioning of crossovers in meiosis and thus affects genetic diversity and chromosome segregation. Yet, the underlying mechanism is not fully understood, partly because quantification is difficult. To overcome this challenge, we introduce the interference length L int that quantifies changes in crossover patterning due to interference. We show that it faithfully captures known aspects of crossover interference and provides superior statistical power over previous measures such as the interference distance and the gamma shape parameter. We apply our analysis to empirical data and unveil a similar behavior of L int across species, which hints at a common mechanism. A recently proposed coarsening model generally captures these aspects, providing a unified view of crossover interference. Consequently, L int facilitates model refinements and general comparisons between alternative models of crossover interference.
Source: Nature Communications
Authors: Marcel Ernst, Raphael Mercier, David Zwicker
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $6,790
Award: G5417421459
OpenAlex ID: W4403510111