Distribution of meiotic recombination events: talking to your neighbors

Curr Opin Genet Dev. 2009 Apr;19(2):105-12. doi: 10.1016/j.gde.2009.02.005. Epub 2009 Mar 26.

Abstract

Accurate chromosome segregation during meiosis is essential for a species' survival. Therefore, a series of events unfold during meiosis, including pairing, synapsis, and recombination between homologous chromosomes, to ultimately ensure the successful completion of this task. This review will focus on how the regulation of crossover recombination events between homologous chromosomes plays a key role in promoting faithful segregation. Although our understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which crossovers are formed has increased significantly, the mechanisms governing the distribution of crossovers along meiotic chromosomes remain largely mysterious. Here, we review the different levels of apparent control of meiotic crossover formation and distribution.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chromosome Pairing / genetics
  • Crossing Over, Genetic / genetics*
  • DNA Breaks, Double-Stranded
  • DNA, Single-Stranded / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Meiosis / genetics*
  • Models, Genetic
  • Rad51 Recombinase / metabolism
  • Recombination, Genetic / genetics*

Substances

  • DNA, Single-Stranded
  • Rad51 Recombinase