Hidden genetic nature of epigenetic natural variation in plants

Trends Plant Sci. 2013 Nov;18(11):625-32. doi: 10.1016/j.tplants.2013.07.005. Epub 2013 Aug 14.

Abstract

Transcriptional gene silencing (TGS) is an epigenetic mechanism that suppresses the activity of repetitive DNA elements via accumulation of repressive chromatin marks. We discuss natural variation in TGS, with a particular focus on cases that affect the function of protein-coding genes and lead to developmental or physiological changes. Comparison of the examples described has revealed that most natural variation is associated with genetic determinants, such as gene rearrangements, inverted repeats, and transposon insertions that triggered TGS. Recent technical advances have enabled the study of epigenetic natural variation at a whole-genome scale and revealed patterns of inter- and intraspecific epigenetic variation. Future studies exploring non-model species may reveal species-specific evolutionary adaptations at the level of chromatin configuration.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • DNA Methylation
  • Epigenesis, Genetic*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Plant*
  • Gene Silencing
  • Genetic Variation*
  • Genome, Plant / genetics*
  • Mutation
  • Phenotype
  • Plant Physiological Phenomena
  • Plants / anatomy & histology
  • Plants / genetics*