Work

DNA Circles as Vehicles for Genes to Evade Chromosomal Discipline

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: In this Perspective article, we follow the journey of a gene that breaks free from its stringent chromosomal transmission dynamics to become an independently multiplying agent on so-called extrachromosomal circular DNA (ecDNA/eccDNA). We discuss how the release of a gene from its chromosomal anchor can affect its dosage, regulatory context, and potential evolutionary trajectory before examining the phenotypic implications for unicellular and multicellular eukaryotes that transmit genes on circular DNA. We also briefly explore the fundamental difference between circularized genes in flowering plants (angiosperms) and mammals (primarily cancer) concerning somatic and germline inheritance.

Source: Genome Biology and Evolution

DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evaf223

Authors: Monica Rojas-Triana, Jacobus J Boomsma, Birgitte Regenberg

Institution: University of Copenhagen

Language: English

Topic: Chromosomal and Genetic Variations

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,850