The impact of chromosome structure on genome function and meiotic recombination of a holocentric species containing repeat-based centromeres

• Applicant: Dr. André Marques, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Plant Genetics and Genomics ; General Genetics and Functional Genome Biology
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 466324238

Holocentric chromosomes differ from monocentric chromosomes by the absence of a primary constriction (known as centromere) due to a diffuse kinetic activity along the entire chromosome arms. This specialized type of chromosome structure is found in several lineages of plants and animals, with multiple independent origins. Recent studies have shown that, in fact, holocentric chromosomes are composed by multiple centromere-like domains distributed genome-wide (holocentromeres). Position and distribution of chromosome compartments (i.e. topological association domains) and meiotic recombination are strongly influenced by the presence of centromeres. In principle, holocentric organisms show chromosomal adaptations related to chromosome segregation and functioning, such as inverted meiosis. However, lack of detailed genomic studies on holocentric plants hampers the elucidation of the impact of such chromosome structure in a comprehensive evolutionary and functional perspective. Understanding how the genome architecture and how recombination are regulated in holocentric genomes will potentially unveil new molecular mechanisms of great interest for the scientific community.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants