2025/09/12 by Wanyue Xu, Qichao Lian, Meiling Li +2 · 1 voice
Agricultural and Biological Sciences · Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · #Chromosomal and Genetic Variations #DNA Repair Mechanisms #Plant Molecular Biology Research
paper · pdf · doi:10.1042/bst20253025
openalex publication_date 2025/09/12 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/11
Most sexually reproducing eukaryotes use a specialized cell division called meiosis to halve the complement of chromosomes in their gametes. During meiotic prophase I, homologous chromosomes (homologs) recombine by reciprocally exchanging DNA to form cross-overs (COs) that are required for accurate chromosome segregation. COs also reshuffle parental genomes to create genetic diversity among progeny. Molecular genetic studies have identified hundreds of genes involved in meiotic recombination, which have been well summarized in several reviews. Here, we highlight recent advances in understanding endogenous mechanisms that regulate the frequency and distribution of meiotic COs, also called CO patterning. Specifically, we focus on genome-wide regulation, epigenetic control, transcription regulation, and post-transcription processes. Additionally, we highlight open questions that still need further investigation in this field.