Epigenetic Dynamics in Chlamydomonas: Unveiling New Frontiers in Microalgal Research
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Microalgae exhibit significant diversity and ecological importance, acting as primary producers in water ecosystems and contributing to the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites and other high added-value molecules. Their metabolic flexibility and phenotypic plasticity reflect sophisticated gene expression regulation, largely influenced by epigenetic mechanisms. This review explores the current understanding of these mechanisms in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, focusing on DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs. Specifically, it examines the roles of 5-methylcytosine (5mC), N6-methyladenine (6mA) and Histone PTMs in gene expression, genome stability, and environmental adaptation. Despite its lower prevalence, 5mC in Chlamydomonas is strategically distributed, affecting gene silencing and transposable elements. In contrast, 6mA, predominantly found around transcription start sites, influences nucleosome positioning and gene transcription. Histone PTMs provide unique landscapes compared to other green organisms. This review also considers the evolutionary implications of these epigenetic marks, proposing that they are essential for environmental adaptation and survival. Further research is needed to elucidate the interplay between these marks and their broader environmental and biotechnological roles.
Authors: Carballo, Jesús, Carbó, María, Álvarez, Ana, Pascual, Jesús, Meijón, Mónica, Valledor, Luis
Institution: Universidad de Oviedo
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W6892829330
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