Factors Underlying Restricted Crossover Localization in Barley Meiosis

James D Higgins, Kim Osman, Gareth H Jones, F Chris H Franklin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

38 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Meiotic recombination results in the formation of cytological structures known as chiasmata at the sites of genetic crossovers (COs). The formation of at least one chiasma/CO between homologous chromosome pairs is essential for accurate chromosome segregation at the first meiotic division as well as for generating genetic variation. Although DNA double-strand breaks, which initiate recombination, are widely distributed along the chromosomes, this is not necessarily reflected in the chiasma distribution. In many species there is a tendency for chiasmata to be distributed in favored regions along the chromosomes, whereas in others, such as barley and some other grasses, chiasma localization is extremely pronounced. Localization of chiasma to the distal regions of barley chromosomes restricts the genetic variation available to breeders. Studies reviewed herein are beginning to provide an explanation for chiasma localization in barley. Moreover, they suggest a potential route to manipulating chiasma distribution that could be of value to plant breeders. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Genetics Volume 48 is November 23, 2014. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/catalog/pubdates.aspx for revised estimates.

Original languageEnglish
JournalAnnual review of genetics
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Aug 2014

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