1
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Gil J, Rosin LF, Navarrete E, Chowdhury N, Abraham S, Cornilleau G, Lei EP, Mozziconacci J, Mirny LA, Muller H, Drinnenberg IA. Unique territorial and compartmental organization of chromosomes in the holocentric silkmoth. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.09.14.557757. [PMID: 37745315 PMCID: PMC10515926 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.14.557757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
The hallmarks of chromosome organization in multicellular eukaryotes are chromosome territories (CT), chromatin compartments, and insulated domains, including topologically associated domains (TADs). Yet, most of these elements of chromosome organization are derived from analyses of a limited set of model organisms, while large eukaryotic groups, including insects, remain mostly unexplored. Here we combine Hi-C, biophysical modeling, and microscopy to characterize the 3D genome architecture of the silkworm, Bombyx mori. In contrast to other eukaryotes, B. mori chromosomes form highly separated territories. Similar to other eukaryotes, B. mori chromosomes segregate into active A and inactive B compartments, yet unlike in vertebrate systems, contacts between euchromatic A regions appear to be a strong driver of compartmentalization. Remarkably, we also identify a third compartment, called secluded S, with a unique contact pattern. Each S region shows prominent short-range self-contacts and is remarkably devoid of contacts with the rest of the chromosome, including other S regions. Compartment S hosts a unique combination of genetic and epigenetic features, localizes towards the periphery of CTs, and shows developmental plasticity. Biophysical modeling reveals that the formation of such secluded domains requires highly localized loop extrusion within them, along with a low level of extrusion in A and B. Our Hi-C data supports predicted genome-wide and localized extrusion. Such a broad, non-uniform distribution of extruders has not been seen in other organisms. Overall, our analyses support loop extrusion in insects and highlight the evolutionary plasticity of 3D genome organization, driven by a new combination of known processes.
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2
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Lv P, Yang X, Zhao X, Zhao Z, Du J. Genome-wide profiles of H3K9me3, H3K27me3 modifications, and DNA methylation during diapause of Asian corn borer ( Ostrinia furnacalis). Genome Res 2024; 34:725-739. [PMID: 38866549 PMCID: PMC11216315 DOI: 10.1101/gr.278661.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Diapause represents a crucial adaptive strategy used by insects to cope with changing environmental conditions. In North China, the Asian corn borer (Ostrinia furnacalis) enters a winter larval diapause stage. Although there is growing evidence implicating epigenetic mechanisms in diapause regulation, it remains unclear whether dynamic genome-wide profiles of epigenetic modifications exist during this process. By investigating multiple histone modifications, we have discovered the essential roles of H3K9me3 and H3K27me3 during diapause of the Asian corn borer. Building upon previous findings in vertebrates highlighting the connection between DNA methylation and repressive histone methylations, we have examined changes in the genome-wide profile of H3K9me3, H3K27me3, and DNA methylation at the nondiapause, prediapause, and diapause stages. Data analysis reveals significant alterations in these three modifications during diapause. Moreover, we observe a correlation between the H3K9me3 and H3K27me3 modification sites during diapause, whereas DNA modifications show little association with either H3K9me3 or H3K27me3. Integrative analysis of epigenome and expression data unveils the relationship between these epigenetic modifications and gene expression levels at corresponding diapause stages. Furthermore, by studying the function of histone modifications on genes known to be important in diapause, especially those involved in the juvenile pathway, we discover that the juvenile hormone pathway lies downstream from H3K9me3 and H3K27me3 histone modifications. Finally, the analysis of gene loci with modified modifications unreported in diapause uncovers novel pathways potentially crucial in diapause regulation. This study provides a valuable resource for future investigations aiming to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of diapause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Lv
- Department of Entomology, MOA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xingzhuo Yang
- Department of Entomology, MOA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xianguo Zhao
- Department of Entomology, MOA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhangwu Zhao
- Department of Entomology, MOA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Entomology, MOA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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3
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Kuo YT, Schubert V, Marques A, Schubert I, Houben A. Centromere diversity: How different repeat-based holocentromeres may have evolved. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2400013. [PMID: 38593286 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202400013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
In addition to monocentric eukaryotes, which have a single localized centromere on each chromosome, there are holocentric species, with extended repeat-based or repeat-less centromeres distributed over the entire chromosome length. At least two types of repeat-based holocentromeres exist, one composed of many small repeat-based centromere units (small unit-type), and another one characterized by a few large centromere units (large unit-type). We hypothesize that the transposable element-mediated dispersal of hundreds of short satellite arrays formed the small centromere unit-type holocentromere in Rhynchospora pubera. The large centromere unit-type of the plant Chionographis japonica is likely a product of simultaneous DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), which initiated the de novo formation of repeat-based holocentromeres via insertion of satellite DNA, derived from extra-chromosomal circular DNAs (eccDNAs). The number of initial DSBs along the chromosomes must be higher than the number of centromere units since only a portion of the breaks will have incorporated eccDNA at an appropriate position to serve as future centromere unit sites. Subsequently, preferential incorporation of the centromeric histone H3 variant at these positions is assumed. The identification of repeat-based holocentromeres across lineages will unveil the centromere plasticity and elucidate the mechanisms underlying the diverse formation of holocentromeres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Tzu Kuo
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
| | - Veit Schubert
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
| | - André Marques
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Ingo Schubert
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
| | - Andreas Houben
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Seeland, Germany
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4
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Kuo YT, Kurian JG, Schubert V, Fuchs J, Melzer M, Muraleedharan A, Maruthachalam R, Houben A. The holocentricity in the dioecious nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) is not based on major satellite repeats. Chromosome Res 2024; 32:8. [PMID: 38717688 PMCID: PMC11078807 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-024-09751-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Holocentric species are characterized by the presence of centromeres throughout the length of the chromosomes. We confirmed the holocentricity of the dioecious, small chromosome-size species Myristica fragrans based on the chromosome-wide distribution of the centromere-specific protein KNL1, α-tubulin fibers, and the cell cycle-dependent histone H3 serine 28 phosphorylation (H3S28ph) mark. Each holocentromere is likely composed of, on average, ten centromere units, but none of the identified and in situ hybridized high-copy satellite repeats is centromere-specific. No sex-specific major repeats are present in the high-copy repeat composition of male or female plants, or a significant difference in genome size was detected. Therefore, it is unlikely that M. fragrans possesses heteromorphic sex chromosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Tzu Kuo
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany
| | - Jacob Gigi Kurian
- School of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Thiruvananthapuram, 695551, Kerala, India
| | - Veit Schubert
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany
| | - Jörg Fuchs
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany
| | - Michael Melzer
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany
| | - Ananthu Muraleedharan
- School of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Thiruvananthapuram, 695551, Kerala, India
- Department of Plant Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute of Plant Breeding Research, 50829, Cologne, Germany
| | - Ravi Maruthachalam
- School of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Thiruvananthapuram, 695551, Kerala, India
| | - Andreas Houben
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany.
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5
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Boman J, Wiklund C, Vila R, Backström N. Meiotic drive against chromosome fusions in butterfly hybrids. Chromosome Res 2024; 32:7. [PMID: 38702576 PMCID: PMC11068667 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-024-09752-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Species frequently differ in the number and structure of chromosomes they harbor, but individuals that are heterozygous for chromosomal rearrangements may suffer from reduced fitness. Chromosomal rearrangements like fissions and fusions can hence serve as a mechanism for speciation between incipient lineages, but their evolution poses a paradox. How can rearrangements get fixed between populations if heterozygotes have reduced fitness? One solution is that this process predominantly occurs in small and isolated populations, where genetic drift can override natural selection. However, fixation is also more likely if a novel rearrangement is favored by a transmission bias, such as meiotic drive. Here, we investigate chromosomal transmission distortion in hybrids between two wood white (Leptidea sinapis) butterfly populations with extensive karyotype differences. Using data from two different crossing experiments, we uncover that there is a transmission bias favoring the ancestral chromosomal state for derived fusions, a result that shows that chromosome fusions actually can fix in populations despite being counteracted by meiotic drive. This means that meiotic drive not only can promote runaway chromosome number evolution and speciation, but also that it can be a conservative force acting against karyotypic change and the evolution of reproductive isolation. Based on our results, we suggest a mechanistic model for why chromosome fusion mutations may be opposed by meiotic drive and discuss factors contributing to karyotype evolution in Lepidoptera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesper Boman
- Evolutionary Biology Program, Department of Ecology and Genetics (IEG), Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, SE-752 36, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Christer Wiklund
- Department of Zoology: Division of Ecology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Roger Vila
- Institut de Biologia Evolutiva (CSIC-Univ. Pompeu Fabra), Passeig Marítim de La Barceloneta 37-49, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Niclas Backström
- Evolutionary Biology Program, Department of Ecology and Genetics (IEG), Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, SE-752 36, Uppsala, Sweden
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6
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Wright CJ, Stevens L, Mackintosh A, Lawniczak M, Blaxter M. Comparative genomics reveals the dynamics of chromosome evolution in Lepidoptera. Nat Ecol Evol 2024; 8:777-790. [PMID: 38383850 PMCID: PMC11009112 DOI: 10.1038/s41559-024-02329-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Chromosomes are a central unit of genome organization. One-tenth of all described species on Earth are butterflies and moths, the Lepidoptera, which generally possess 31 chromosomes. However, some species display dramatic variation in chromosome number. Here we analyse 210 chromosomally complete lepidopteran genomes and show that the chromosomes of extant lepidopterans are derived from 32 ancestral linkage groups, which we term Merian elements. Merian elements have remained largely intact through 250 million years of evolution and diversification. Against this stable background, eight lineages have undergone extensive reorganization either through numerous fissions or a combination of fusion and fission events. Outside these lineages, fusions are rare and fissions are rarer still. Fusions often involve small, repeat-rich Merian elements and the sex-linked element. Our results reveal the constraints on genome architecture in Lepidoptera and provide a deeper understanding of chromosomal rearrangements in eukaryotic genome evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lewis Stevens
- Tree of Life, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Mark Blaxter
- Tree of Life, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK.
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7
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Castellani M, Zhang M, Thangavel G, Mata-Sucre Y, Lux T, Campoy JA, Marek M, Huettel B, Sun H, Mayer KFX, Schneeberger K, Marques A. Meiotic recombination dynamics in plants with repeat-based holocentromeres shed light on the primary drivers of crossover patterning. NATURE PLANTS 2024; 10:423-438. [PMID: 38337039 PMCID: PMC10954556 DOI: 10.1038/s41477-024-01625-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Centromeres strongly affect (epi)genomic architecture and meiotic recombination dynamics, influencing the overall distribution and frequency of crossovers. Here we show how recombination is regulated and distributed in the holocentric plant Rhynchospora breviuscula, a species with diffused centromeres. Combining immunocytochemistry, chromatin analysis and high-throughput single-pollen sequencing, we discovered that crossover frequency is distally biased, in sharp contrast to the diffused distribution of hundreds of centromeric units and (epi)genomic features. Remarkably, we found that crossovers were abolished inside centromeric units but not in their proximity, indicating the absence of a canonical centromere effect. We further propose that telomere-led synapsis of homologues is the feature that best explains the observed recombination landscape. Our results hint at the primary influence of mechanistic features of meiotic pairing and synapsis rather than (epi)genomic features and centromere organization in determining the distally biased crossover distribution in R. breviuscula, whereas centromeres and (epi)genetic properties only affect crossover positioning locally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Castellani
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gokilavani Thangavel
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Yennifer Mata-Sucre
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany
- Laboratory of Plant Cytogenetics and Evolution, Department of Botany, Centre of Biosciences, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Thomas Lux
- Plant Genome and Systems Biology, German Research Centre for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - José A Campoy
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany
- Department of Pomology, Estación Experimental de Aula Dei (EEAD), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Magdalena Marek
- Max Planck Genome-Centre Cologne, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Bruno Huettel
- Max Planck Genome-Centre Cologne, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Hequan Sun
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- School of Automation Science and Engineering, Faculty of Electronic and Information Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Klaus F X Mayer
- Plant Genome and Systems Biology, German Research Centre for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Korbinian Schneeberger
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - André Marques
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany.
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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8
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Cornet C, Mora P, Augustijnen H, Nguyen P, Escudero M, Lucek K. Holocentric repeat landscapes: From micro-evolutionary patterns to macro-evolutionary associations with karyotype evolution. Mol Ecol 2023. [PMID: 37577951 DOI: 10.1111/mec.17100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Repetitive elements can cause large-scale chromosomal rearrangements, for example through ectopic recombination, potentially promoting reproductive isolation and speciation. Species with holocentric chromosomes, that lack a localized centromere, might be more likely to retain chromosomal rearrangements that lead to karyotype changes such as fusions and fissions. This is because chromosome segregation during cell division should be less affected than in organisms with a localized centromere. The relationships between repetitive elements and chromosomal rearrangements and how they may translate to patterns of speciation in holocentric organisms are though poorly understood. Here, we use a reference-free approach based on low-coverage short-read sequencing data to characterize the repeat landscape of two independently evolved holocentric groups: Erebia butterflies and Carex sedges. We consider both micro- and macro-evolutionary scales to investigate the repeat landscape differentiation between Erebia populations and the association between repeats and karyotype changes in a phylogenetic framework for both Erebia and Carex. At a micro-evolutionary scale, we found population differentiation in repeat landscape that increases with overall intraspecific genetic differentiation among four Erebia species. At a macro-evolutionary scale, we found indications for an association between repetitive elements and karyotype changes along both Erebia and Carex phylogenies. Altogether, our results suggest that repetitive elements are associated with the level of population differentiation and chromosomal rearrangements in holocentric clades and therefore likely play a role in adaptation and potentially species diversification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Cornet
- Biodiversity Genomics Laboratory, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Pablo Mora
- Department of Experimental Biology, Genetics Area, University of Jaén, Jaén, Spain
- University of South Bohemia, Faculty of Science, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Hannah Augustijnen
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Petr Nguyen
- University of South Bohemia, Faculty of Science, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Marcial Escudero
- Department of Plant Biology and Ecology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Kay Lucek
- Biodiversity Genomics Laboratory, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
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9
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Yatskevich S, Barford D, Muir KW. Conserved and divergent mechanisms of inner kinetochore assembly onto centromeric chromatin. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2023; 81:102638. [PMID: 37343495 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2023.102638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Kinetochores are large protein complexes built on centromeric chromatin that mediate chromosome segregation. The inner kinetochore, or constitutive centromere-associated network (CCAN), assembles onto centromeres defined by centromere protein A (CENP-A) nucleosomes (CENP-ANuc), and acts as a platform for the regulated assembly of the microtubule-binding outer kinetochore. Recent cryo-EM work revealed structural conservation of CCAN, from the repeating human regional centromeres to the point centromere of budding yeast. Centromere recognition is determined mainly through engagement of duplex DNA proximal to the CENP-A nucleosome by a DNA-binding CENP-LN channel located at the core of CCAN. Additional DNA interactions formed by other CCAN modules create an enclosed DNA-binding chamber. This configuration explains how kinetochores maintain their tight grip on centromeric DNA to withstand the forces of chromosome segregation. Defining the higher-order architecture of complete kinetochore assemblies with implications for understanding the 3D organisation of regional centromeres and mechanisms of kinetochore dynamics, including how kinetochores sense and respond to tension, are important future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanislau Yatskevich
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, CB2 0QH, United Kingdom. https://twitter.com/StanislauY
| | - David Barford
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, CB2 0QH, United Kingdom.
| | - Kyle W Muir
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, CB2 0QH, United Kingdom. https://twitter.com/centromuir
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10
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Zhu J, Guo Q, Choi M, Liang Z, Yuen KWY. Centromeric and pericentric transcription and transcripts: their intricate relationships, regulation, and functions. Chromosoma 2023:10.1007/s00412-023-00801-x. [PMID: 37401943 PMCID: PMC10356649 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-023-00801-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Centromeres are no longer considered to be silent. Both centromeric and pericentric transcription have been discovered, and their RNA transcripts have been characterized and probed for functions in numerous monocentric model organisms recently. Here, we will discuss the challenges in centromere transcription studies due to the repetitive nature and sequence similarity in centromeric and pericentric regions. Various technological breakthroughs have helped to tackle these challenges and reveal unique features of the centromeres and pericentromeres. We will briefly introduce these techniques, including third-generation long-read DNA and RNA sequencing, protein-DNA and RNA-DNA interaction detection methods, and epigenomic and nucleosomal mapping techniques. Interestingly, some newly analyzed repeat-based holocentromeres also resemble the architecture and the transcription behavior of monocentromeres. We will summarize evidences that support the functions of the transcription process and stalling, and those that support the functions of the centromeric and pericentric RNAs. The processing of centromeric and pericentric RNAs into multiple variants and their diverse structures may also provide clues to their functions. How future studies may address the separation of functions of specific centromeric transcription steps, processing pathways, and the transcripts themselves will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhu
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qiao Guo
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Gaoke Innovation Center, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Guangming District, Guangqiao Road, Shenzhen, China
| | - Minjun Choi
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhoubin Liang
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Gaoke Innovation Center, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Guangming District, Guangqiao Road, Shenzhen, China
| | - Karen Wing Yee Yuen
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China.
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11
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Kuo YT, Câmara AS, Schubert V, Neumann P, Macas J, Melzer M, Chen J, Fuchs J, Abel S, Klocke E, Huettel B, Himmelbach A, Demidov D, Dunemann F, Mascher M, Ishii T, Marques A, Houben A. Holocentromeres can consist of merely a few megabase-sized satellite arrays. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3502. [PMID: 37311740 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38922-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The centromere is the chromosome region where microtubules attach during cell division. In contrast to monocentric chromosomes with one centromere, holocentric species usually distribute hundreds of centromere units along the entire chromatid. We assembled the chromosome-scale reference genome and analyzed the holocentromere and (epi)genome organization of the lilioid Chionographis japonica. Remarkably, each of its holocentric chromatids consists of only 7 to 11 evenly spaced megabase-sized centromere-specific histone H3-positive units. These units contain satellite arrays of 23 and 28 bp-long monomers capable of forming palindromic structures. Like monocentric species, C. japonica forms clustered centromeres in chromocenters at interphase. In addition, the large-scale eu- and heterochromatin arrangement differs between C. japonica and other known holocentric species. Finally, using polymer simulations, we model the formation of prometaphase line-like holocentromeres from interphase centromere clusters. Our findings broaden the knowledge about centromere diversity, showing that holocentricity is not restricted to species with numerous and small centromere units.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Tzu Kuo
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany.
| | - Amanda Souza Câmara
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany
| | - Veit Schubert
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany
| | - Pavel Neumann
- Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Plant Molecular Biology, Branišovská 31, České Budějovice, CZ-37005, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Macas
- Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Plant Molecular Biology, Branišovská 31, České Budějovice, CZ-37005, Czech Republic
| | - Michael Melzer
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany
| | - Jianyong Chen
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany
| | - Jörg Fuchs
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany
| | - Simone Abel
- Julius Kühn-Institute (JKI), Institute for Breeding Research on Horticultural Crops, Erwin-Baur-Str. 27, 06484, Quedlinburg, Germany
| | - Evelyn Klocke
- Julius Kühn-Institute (JKI), Institute for Breeding Research on Horticultural Crops, Erwin-Baur-Str. 27, 06484, Quedlinburg, Germany
| | - Bruno Huettel
- Max Planck Genome-Centre Cologne, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, 50829, Germany
| | - Axel Himmelbach
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany
| | - Dmitri Demidov
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany
| | - Frank Dunemann
- Julius Kühn-Institute (JKI), Institute for Breeding Research on Horticultural Crops, Erwin-Baur-Str. 27, 06484, Quedlinburg, Germany
| | - Martin Mascher
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany
| | - Takayoshi Ishii
- Arid Land Research Center, Tottori University, 1390 Hamasaka, Tottori, 680-0001, Japan
| | - André Marques
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, 50829, Germany
| | - Andreas Houben
- Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3, 06466, Seeland, Germany.
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12
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Caro L, Raman P, Steiner FA, Ailion M, Malik HS. Recurrent but Short-Lived Duplications of Centromeric Proteins in Holocentric Caenorhabditis Species. Mol Biol Evol 2022; 39:6731087. [PMID: 36173809 PMCID: PMC9577544 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msac206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Centromeric histones (CenH3s) are essential for chromosome inheritance during cell division in most eukaryotes. CenH3 genes have rapidly evolved and undergone repeated gene duplications and diversification in many plant and animal species. In Caenorhabditis species, two independent duplications of CenH3 (named hcp-3 for HoloCentric chromosome-binding Protein 3) were previously identified in C. elegans and C. remanei. Using phylogenomic analyses in 32 Caenorhabditis species, we find strict retention of the ancestral hcp-3 gene and 10 independent duplications. Most hcp-3L (hcp-3-like) paralogs are only found in 1-2 species, are expressed in both males and females/hermaphrodites, and encode histone fold domains with 69-100% identity to ancestral hcp-3. We identified novel N-terminal protein motifs, including putative kinetochore protein-interacting motifs and a potential separase cleavage site, which are well conserved across Caenorhabditis HCP-3 proteins. Other N-terminal motifs vary in their retention across paralogs or species, revealing potential subfunctionalization or functional loss following duplication. An N-terminal extension in the hcp-3L gene of C. afra revealed an unprecedented protein fusion, where hcp-3L fused to duplicated segments from hcp-4 (nematode CENP-C). By extending our analyses beyond CenH3, we found gene duplications of six inner and outer kinetochore genes in Caenorhabditis, which appear to have been retained independent of hcp-3 duplications. Our findings suggest that centromeric protein duplications occur frequently in Caenorhabditis nematodes, are selectively retained for short evolutionary periods, then degenerate or are lost entirely. We hypothesize that unique challenges associated with holocentricity in Caenorhabditis may lead to this rapid "revolving door" of kinetochore protein paralogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lews Caro
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Pravrutha Raman
- Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Florian A Steiner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Cellular Biology, Section of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Michael Ailion
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Harmit S Malik
- Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
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13
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Hofstatter PG, Thangavel G, Lux T, Neumann P, Vondrak T, Novak P, Zhang M, Costa L, Castellani M, Scott A, Toegelová H, Fuchs J, Mata-Sucre Y, Dias Y, Vanzela AL, Huettel B, Almeida CC, Šimková H, Souza G, Pedrosa-Harand A, Macas J, Mayer KF, Houben A, Marques A. Repeat-based holocentromeres influence genome architecture and karyotype evolution. Cell 2022; 185:3153-3168.e18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2022.06.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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14
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Talbert P, Henikoff S. Centromeres organize (epi)genome architecture. Cell 2022; 185:3083-3085. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2022.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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15
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Wang Y, Wu L, Yuen KWY. The roles of transcription, chromatin organisation and chromosomal processes in holocentromere establishment and maintenance. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 127:79-89. [PMID: 35042676 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The centromere is a unique functional region on each eukaryotic chromosome where the kinetochore assembles and orchestrates microtubule attachment and chromosome segregation. Unlike monocentromeres that occupy a specific region on the chromosome, holocentromeres are diffused along the length of the chromosome. Despite being less common, holocentromeres have been verified in almost 800 nematode, insect, and plant species. Understanding of the molecular and epigenetic regulation of holocentromeres is lagging that of monocentromeres. Here we review how permissive locations for holocentromeres are determined across the genome, potentially by chromatin organisation, transcription, and non-coding RNAs, specifically in the nematode C. elegans. In addition, we discuss how holocentric CENP-A or CENP-T-containing nucleosomes are recruited and deposited, through the help of histone chaperones, licensing factors, and condensin complexes, both during de novo holocentromere establishment, and in each mitotic cell cycle. The process of resolving sister centromeres after DNA replication in holocentric organisms is also mentioned. Conservation and diversity between holocentric and monocentric organisms are highlighted, and outstanding questions are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong
| | - Lillian Wu
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong; Epigenetics and Genome Stability Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, 237 Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Wing Yee Yuen
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong.
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16
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Senaratne AP, Cortes-Silva N, Drinnenberg IA. Evolution of holocentric chromosomes: Drivers, diversity, and deterrents. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 127:90-99. [PMID: 35031207 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Centromeres are specialized chromosomal regions that recruit kinetochore proteins and mediate spindle microtubule attachment to ensure faithful chromosome segregation during mitosis and meiosis. Centromeres can be restricted to one region of the chromosome. Named "monocentromere", this type represents the most commonly found centromere organization across eukaryotes. Alternatively, centromeres can also be assembled at sites chromosome-wide. This second type is called "holocentromere". Despite their early description over 100 years ago, research on holocentromeres has lagged behind that of monocentromeres. Nevertheless, the application of next generation sequencing approaches and advanced microscopic technologies enabled recent advances understanding the molecular organization and regulation of holocentromeres in different organisms. Here we review the current state of research on holocentromeres focusing on evolutionary considerations. First, we provide a brief historical perspective on the discovery of holocentric chromosomes. We then discuss models/drivers that have been proposed over the years to explain the evolutionary transition from mono- to holocentric chromosomes. We continue to review the description of holocentric chromosomes in diverse eukaryotic groups and then focus our discussion on a specific and recently characterized type of holocentromere organization in insects that functions independently of the otherwise essential centromeric marker protein CenH3, thus providing novel insights into holocentromere evolution in insects. Finally, we propose reasons to explain why the holocentric trait is not more frequent across eukaryotes despite putative selective advantages.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nuria Cortes-Silva
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK; Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK
| | - Ines A Drinnenberg
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS, UMR3664, F-75005 Paris, France; Sorbonne Université, Institut Curie, CNRS, UMR3664, F-75005 Paris, France.
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17
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Lucek K, Augustijnen H, Escudero M. A holocentric twist to chromosomal speciation? Trends Ecol Evol 2022; 37:655-662. [PMID: 35484024 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2022.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Chromosomal rearrangements trigger speciation by acting as barriers to gene flow. However, the underlying theory was developed with monocentric chromosomes in mind. Holocentric chromosomes, lacking a centromeric region, have repeatedly evolved and account for a significant fraction of extant biodiversity. Because chromosomal rearrangements may be more likely retained in holocentric species, holocentricity could provide a twist to chromosomal speciation. Here, we discuss how the abundance of chromosome-scale genomes, combined with novel analytical tools, offer the opportunity to assess the impacts of chromosomal rearrangements on rates of speciation by outlining a phylogenetic framework that aligns with the two major lines of chromosomal speciation theory. We further highlight how holocentric species could help to test for causal roles of chromosomal rearrangements in speciation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay Lucek
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Schönbeinstrasse 6, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Hannah Augustijnen
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Schönbeinstrasse 6, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marcial Escudero
- Department of Plant Biology and Ecology, University of Seville, Reina Mercedes, ES-41012 Seville, Spain
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18
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Abstract
Centromeres, the chromosomal loci where spindle fibers attach during cell division to segregate chromosomes, are typically found within satellite arrays in plants and animals. Satellite arrays have been difficult to analyze because they comprise megabases of tandem head-to-tail highly repeated DNA sequences. Much evidence suggests that centromeres are epigenetically defined by the location of nucleosomes containing the centromere-specific histone H3 variant cenH3, independently of the DNA sequences where they are located; however, the reason that cenH3 nucleosomes are generally found on rapidly evolving satellite arrays has remained unclear. Recently, long-read sequencing technology has clarified the structures of satellite arrays and sparked rethinking of how they evolve, and new experiments and analyses have helped bring both understanding and further speculation about the role these highly repeated sequences play in centromere identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul B Talbert
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA
| | - Steven Henikoff
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA
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19
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Dosage compensation in Bombyx mori is achieved by partial repression of both Z chromosomes in males. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2113374119. [PMID: 35239439 PMCID: PMC8915793 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2113374119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genes on sex chromosomes (i.e. human chX) are regulated differently in males and females to balance gene expression levels between sexes (XY vs. XX). This sex-specific regulation is called dosage compensation (DC). DC is achieved by altering the shape and compaction of sex chromosomes specifically in one sex. In this study, we use Oligopaints to examine DC in silkworms. This study visualizes this phenomenon in a species with ZW sex chromosomes, which evolved independently of XY. Our data support a long-standing model for how DC mechanisms evolved across species, and we show potential similarity between DC in silkworms and nematodes, suggesting that this type of DC may have emerged multiple independent times throughout evolution. Interphase chromatin is organized precisely to facilitate accurate gene expression. The structure–function relationship of chromatin is epitomized in sex chromosome dosage compensation (DC), where sex-linked gene expression is balanced between males and females via sex-specific alterations to three-dimensional chromatin structure. Studies in ZW-bearing species suggest that DC is absent or incomplete in most lineages except butterflies and moths, where male (ZZ) Z chromosome (chZ) expression is reduced by half to equal females (ZW). However, whether one chZ is inactivated (as in mammals) or both are partially repressed (as in Caenorhabditis elegans) is unclear. Using Oligopaints in the silkworm, Bombyx mori, we visualize autosomes and chZ in somatic cells from both sexes. We find that B. mori chromosomes are highly compact relative to Drosophila. We show that in B. mori males, both chZs are similar in size and shape and are more compact than autosomes or the female chZ after DC establishment, suggesting both male chZs are partially and equally downregulated. We also find that in the early stages of DC in females, chZ chromatin becomes more accessible and Z-linked expression increases. Concomitant with these changes, the female chZ repositions toward the nuclear center, revealing nonsequencing-based support for Ohno’s hypothesis. These studies visualizing interphase genome organization and chZ structure in Lepidoptera uncover intriguing similarities between DC in B. mori and C. elegans, despite these lineages harboring evolutionarily distinct sex chromosomes (ZW/XY), suggesting a possible role for holocentricity in DC mechanisms.
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20
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Ishii M, Akiyoshi B. Plasticity in centromere organization and kinetochore composition: Lessons from diversity. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2022; 74:47-54. [PMID: 35108654 PMCID: PMC9089191 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2021.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Kinetochores are the macromolecular protein complexes that govern chromosome movement by binding spindle microtubules during mitosis and meiosis. Centromeres are the specific chromosomal regions that serve as the platform on which kinetochores assemble. Despite their essentiality for proper chromosome segregation, the size and organization of centromeres vary dramatically between species, while different compositions of kinetochores are found among eukaryotes. Here we discuss recent progress in understanding centromeres and kinetochores in non-traditional model eukaryotes. We specifically focus on select lineages (holocentric insects, early diverging fungi, and kinetoplastids) that lack CENP-A, a centromere-specific histone H3 variant that is critical for kinetochore specification and assembly in many eukaryotes. We also highlight some organisms that might have hitherto unknown types of kinetochore proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Midori Ishii
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, UK
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21
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Nhim S, Gimenez S, Nait-Saidi R, Severac D, Nam K, d'Alençon E, Nègre N. H3K9me2 genome-wide distribution in the holocentric insect Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Genomics 2021; 114:384-397. [PMID: 34971718 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2021.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eukaryotic genomes are packaged by Histone proteins in a structure called chromatin. There are different chromatin types. Euchromatin is typically associated with decondensed, transcriptionally active regions and heterochromatin to more condensed regions of the chromosomes. Methylation of Lysine 9 of Histone H3 (H3K9me) is a conserved biochemical marker of heterochromatin. In many organisms, heterochromatin is usually localized at telomeric as well as pericentromeric regions but can also be found at interstitial chromosomal loci. This distribution may vary in different species depending on their general chromosomal organization. Holocentric species such as Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) possess dispersed centromeres instead of a monocentric one and thus no observable pericentromeric compartment. To identify the localization of heterochromatin in such species we performed ChIP-Seq experiments and analyzed the distribution of the heterochromatin marker H3K9me2 in the Sf9 cell line and whole 4th instar larvae (L4) in relation to RNA-Seq data. RESULTS In both samples we measured an enrichment of H3K9me2 at the (sub) telomeres, rDNA loci, and satellite DNA sequences, which could represent dispersed centromeric regions. We also observed that density of H3K9me2 is positively correlated with transposable elements and protein-coding genes. But contrary to most model organisms, H3K9me2 density is not correlated with transcriptional repression. CONCLUSION This is the first genome-wide ChIP-Seq analysis conducted in S. frugiperda for H3K9me2. Compared to model organisms, this mark is found in expected chromosomal compartments such as rDNA and telomeres. However, it is also localized at numerous dispersed regions, instead of the well described large pericentromeric domains, indicating that H3K9me2 might not represent a classical heterochromatin marker in Lepidoptera. (242 words).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Nhim
- DGIMI, Univ Montpellier, INRAE, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Dany Severac
- MGX, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Kiwoong Nam
- DGIMI, Univ Montpellier, INRAE, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Nicolas Nègre
- DGIMI, Univ Montpellier, INRAE, Montpellier, France.
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22
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Barbosa AC, Xu Z, Karari K, Williams W, Hauf S, Brown WRA. Mutation and selection explain why many eukaryotic centromeric DNA sequences are often A + T rich. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 50:579-596. [PMID: 34928384 PMCID: PMC8754631 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab1219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
We have used chromosome engineering to replace native centromeric DNA with different test sequences at native centromeres in two different strains of the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe and have discovered that A + T rich DNA, whether synthetic or of bacterial origin, will function as a centromere in this species. Using genome size as a surrogate for the inverse of effective population size (Ne) we also show that the relative A + T content of centromeric DNA scales with Ne across 43 animal, fungal and yeast (Opisthokonta) species. This suggests that in most of these species the A + T content of the centromeric DNA is determined by a balance between selection and mutation. Combining the experimental results and the evolutionary analyses allows us to conclude that A + T rich DNA of almost any sequence will function as a centromere in most Opisthokonta species. The fact that many G/C to A/T substitutions are unlikely to be selected against may contribute to the rapid evolution of centromeric DNA. We also show that a neo-centromere sequence is not simply a weak version of native centromeric DNA and suggest that neo-centromeres require factors either for their propagation or establishment in addition to those required by native centromeres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne C Barbosa
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Zhengyao Xu
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Kazhal Karari
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Wendi Williams
- Virginia Tech, Department of Biological Sciences, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, 1015 Life Science Circle, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Silke Hauf
- Virginia Tech, Department of Biological Sciences, Fralin Life Sciences Institute, 1015 Life Science Circle, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - William R A Brown
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, NG7 2UH, UK
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23
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Abstract
The centromere performs a universally conserved function, to accurately partition genetic information upon cell division. Yet, centromeres are among the most rapidly evolving regions of the genome and are bound by a varying assortment of centromere-binding factors that are themselves highly divergent at the protein-sequence level. A common thread in most species is the dependence on the centromere-specific histone variant CENP-A for the specification of the centromere site. However, CENP-A is not universally required in all species or cell types, making the identification of a general mechanism for centromere specification challenging. In this review, we examine our current understanding of the mechanisms of centromere specification in CENP-A-dependent and independent systems, focusing primarily on recent work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara G Mellone
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, and Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
| | - Daniele Fachinetti
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS, UMR 144, 26 rue d'Ulm, F-75005 Paris, France.
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24
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Kuznetsova VG, Gavrilov-Zimin IA, Grozeva SM, Golub NV. Comparative analysis of chromosome numbers and sex chromosome systems in Paraneoptera (Insecta). COMPARATIVE CYTOGENETICS 2021; 15:279-327. [PMID: 34616525 PMCID: PMC8490342 DOI: 10.3897/compcytogen.v15.i3.71866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
This article is part (the 4th article) of the themed issue (a monograph) "Aberrant cytogenetic and reproductive patterns in the evolution of Paraneoptera". The purpose of this article is to consider chromosome structure and evolution, chromosome numbers and sex chromosome systems, which all together constitute the chromosomal basis of reproduction and are essential for reproductive success. We are based on our own observations and literature data available for all major lineages of Paraneoptera including Zoraptera (angel insects), Copeognatha (=Psocoptera; bark lice), Parasita (=Phthiraptera s. str; true lice), Thysanoptera (thrips), Homoptera (scale insects, aphids, jumping plant-lice, whiteflies, and true hoppers), Heteroptera (true bugs), and Coleorrhyncha (moss bugs). Terminology, nomenclature, classification, and the study methods are given in the first paper of the issue (Gavrilov-Zimin et al. 2021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina G. Kuznetsova
- Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Universitetskaya emb. 1, St. Petersburg, 199034, RussiaZoological Institute, Russian Academy of SciencesSt. PetersburgRussia
| | - Ilya A. Gavrilov-Zimin
- Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Universitetskaya emb. 1, St. Petersburg, 199034, RussiaZoological Institute, Russian Academy of SciencesSt. PetersburgRussia
| | - Snejana M. Grozeva
- Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Blvd Tsar Osvoboditel 1, Sofia 1000, BulgariaInstitute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of SciencesSofiaBulgaria
| | - Natalia V. Golub
- Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Universitetskaya emb. 1, St. Petersburg, 199034, RussiaZoological Institute, Russian Academy of SciencesSt. PetersburgRussia
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25
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Vanpoperinghe L, Carlier-Grynkorn F, Cornilleau G, Kusakabe T, Drinnenberg IA, Tran PT. Live-cell imaging reveals square shape spindles and long mitosis duration in the silkworm holocentric cells. MICROPUBLICATION BIOLOGY 2021; 2021. [PMID: 34514356 PMCID: PMC8411215 DOI: 10.17912/micropub.biology.000441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Proper chromosome segregation during mitosis requires both the assembly of a microtubule (MT)-based spindle and the assembly of DNA-centromere-based kinetochore structure. Kinetochore-to-MT attachment enables chromosome separation. Monocentric cells, such as found in human, have one unique kinetochore per chromosome. Holocentric cells, such as found in the silkworm, in contrast, have multiple kinetochore structures per chromosome. Interestingly, some human cancer chromosomes contain more than one kinetochore, a condition called di- and tricentric. Thus, comparing how wild-type mono- and holocentric cells perform mitosis may provide novel insights into cancer di- and tricentric cell mitosis. We present here live-cell imaging of human RPE1 and silkworm BmN4 cells, revealing striking differences in spindle architecture and dynamics, and highlighting differential kinesin function between mono- and holocentric cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucien Vanpoperinghe
- Institut Curie, PSL Université, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Paris, France.,Médicine Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, Paris, France
| | | | - Gaetan Cornilleau
- Institut Curie, PSL Université, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Takahiro Kusakabe
- Kyushu University, Department of Bioresource Sciences, Laboratory of Insect Genome Science, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ines A Drinnenberg
- Institut Curie, PSL Université, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Phong T Tran
- Institut Curie, PSL Université, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Paris, France.,University of Pennsylvania, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Philadephia, PA, United States
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26
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Rosin LF, Gil J, Drinnenberg IA, Lei EP. Oligopaint DNA FISH reveals telomere-based meiotic pairing dynamics in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009700. [PMID: 34319984 PMCID: PMC8351950 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Accurate chromosome segregation during meiosis is essential for reproductive success. Yet, many fundamental aspects of meiosis remain unclear, including the mechanisms regulating homolog pairing across species. This gap is partially due to our inability to visualize individual chromosomes during meiosis. Here, we employ Oligopaint FISH to investigate homolog pairing and compaction of meiotic chromosomes and resurrect a classical model system, the silkworm Bombyx mori. Our Oligopaint design combines multiplexed barcoding with secondary oligo labeling for high flexibility and low cost. These studies illustrate that Oligopaints are highly specific in whole-mount gonads and on meiotic squashes. We show that meiotic pairing is robust in both males and females and that pairing can occur through numerous partially paired intermediate structures. We also show that pairing in male meiosis occurs asynchronously and seemingly in a transcription-biased manner. Further, we reveal that meiotic bivalent formation in B. mori males is highly similar to bivalent formation in C. elegans, with both of these pathways ultimately resulting in the pairing of chromosome ends with non-paired ends facing the spindle pole. Additionally, microtubule recruitment in both C. elegans and B. mori is likely dependent on kinetochore proteins but independent of the centromere-specifying histone CENP-A. Finally, using super-resolution microscopy in the female germline, we show that homologous chromosomes remain associated at telomere domains in the absence of chiasma and after breakdown and modification to the synaptonemal complex in pachytene. These studies reveal novel insights into mechanisms of meiotic homolog pairing both with or without recombination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah F. Rosin
- Nuclear Organization and Gene Expression Section; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Genetics, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jose Gil
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université, Institut Curie, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Ines A. Drinnenberg
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université, Institut Curie, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Elissa P. Lei
- Nuclear Organization and Gene Expression Section; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Genetics, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
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Navarro AP, Cheeseman IM. Kinetochore assembly throughout the cell cycle. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 117:62-74. [PMID: 33753005 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The kinetochore plays an essential role in facilitating chromosome segregation during cell division. This massive protein complex assembles onto the centromere of chromosomes and enables their attachment to spindle microtubules during mitosis. The kinetochore also functions as a signaling hub to regulate cell cycle progression, and is crucial to ensuring the fidelity of chromosome segregation. Despite the fact that kinetochores are large and robust molecular assemblies, they are also highly dynamic structures that undergo structural and organizational changes throughout the cell cycle. This review will highlight our current understanding of kinetochore structure and function, focusing on the dynamic processes that underlie kinetochore assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra P Navarro
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Iain M Cheeseman
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 455 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
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28
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Gassmann R. Cell Division: Chromatin Dynamics Shape Insect Holocentromeres. Curr Biol 2021; 31:R34-R37. [PMID: 33434487 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2020.10.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Centromeres, the chromosomal loci that ensure chromosome segregation by directing kinetochore assembly, are typically marked by the histone CENP-A. A study in CENP-A-deficient insects finds that virtually any chromosomal region with low nucleosome turnover can assemble kinetochores, highlighting the extraordinary plasticity of holocentromeres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reto Gassmann
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde - i3S, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
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