Diversity in the organization of centromeric chromatin

Retrotransposon addiction promotes centromere function via epigenetically activated small RNAs

Retrotransposons have invaded eukaryotic centromeres in cycles of repeat expansion and purging, but the function of centromeric retrotransposons, if any, has remained unclear. In Arabidopsis, centromeric ATHILA retrotransposons give rise to epigenetically activated short interfering RNAs (easiRNAs) in mutants in DECREASE IN DNA METHYLATION1 (DDM1), which promote histone H3 lysine-9 di-methylation (H3K9me2). Here, we show that mutants which lose both DDM1 and RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP) have pleiotropic developmental defects and mis-segregation of chromosome 5 during mitosis. Fertility defects are epigenetically inherited with the centromeric region of chromosome 5, and can be rescued by directing artificial small RNAs to a single family of ATHILA5 retrotransposons specifically embedded within this centromeric region. easiRNAs and H3K9me2 promote pericentromeric condensation, chromosome cohesion and proper chromosome segregation in mitosis. Insertion of ATHILA silences transcription, while simultaneously making centromere function dependent on retrotransposon small RNAs, promoting the selfish survival and spread of centromeric retrotransposons. Parallels are made with the fission yeast S. pombe, where chromosome segregation depends on RNAi, and with humans, where chromosome segregation depends on both RNAi and HELLSDDM1.

DASH/Dam1 complex mutants stabilize ploidy in histone-humanized yeast by weakening kinetochore-microtubule attachments

Forcing budding yeast to chromatinize their DNA with human histones manifests an abrupt fitness cost. We previously proposed chromosomal aneuploidy and missense mutations as two potential modes of adaptation to histone humanization. Here, we show that aneuploidy in histone-humanized yeasts is specific to a subset of chromosomes that are defined by their centromeric evolutionary origins but that these aneuploidies are not adaptive. Instead, we find that a set of missense mutations in outer kinetochore proteins drives adaptation to human histones. Furthermore, we characterize the molecular mechanism underlying adaptation in two mutants of the outer kinetochore DASH/Dam1 complex, which reduce aneuploidy by suppression of chromosome instability. Molecular modeling and biochemical experiments show that these two mutants likely disrupt a conserved oligomerization interface thereby weakening microtubule attachments. We propose a model through which weakened microtubule attachments promote increased kinetochore-microtubule turnover and thus suppress chromosome instability. In sum, our data show how a set of point mutations evolved in histone-humanized yeasts to counterbalance human histone-induced chromosomal instability through weakening microtubule interactions, eventually promoting a return to euploidy.

Both male and female meiosis contribute to non-Mendelian inheritance of parental chromosomes in interspecific plant hybrids (Lolium × Festuca)

Some interspecific plant hybrids show unequal transmission of chromosomes from parental genomes to the successive generations. It has been suggested that this is due to a differential behavior of parental chromosomes during meiosis. However, underlying mechanism is unknown. We analyzed chromosome composition of the F₂ generation of Festuca × Lolium hybrids and reciprocal backcrosses to elucidate effects of male and female meiosis on the shift in parental genome composition. We studied male meiosis, including the attachment of chromosomes to the karyokinetic spindle and gene expression profiling of the kinetochore genes. We found that Lolium and Festuca homoeologues were transmitted differently to the F₂ generation. Female meiosis led to the replacement of Festuca chromosomes by their Lolium counterparts. In male meiosis, Festuca univalents were attached less frequently to microtubules than Lolium univalents, lagged in divisions and formed micronuclei, which were subsequently eliminated. Genome sequence analysis revealed a number of non-synonymous mutations between copies of the kinetochore genes from Festuca and Lolium genomes. Furthermore, we found that outer kinetochore proteins NDC80 and NNF1 were exclusively expressed from the Lolium allele. We hypothesize that silencing of Festuca alleles results in improper attachment of Festuca chromosomes to karyokinetic spindle and subsequently their gradual elimination.

Cell cycle control of kinetochore assembly

The kinetochore is a large proteinaceous structure assembled on the centromeres of chromosomes. The complex machinery links chromosomes to the mitotic spindle and is essential for accurate chromosome segregation during cell division. The kinetochore is composed of two submodules: the inner and outer kinetochore. The inner kinetochore is assembled on centromeric chromatin and persists with centromeres throughout the cell cycle. The outer kinetochore attaches microtubules to the inner kinetochore, and assembles only during mitosis. The review focuses on recent advances in our understanding of the mechanisms governing the proper assembly of the outer kinetochore during mitosis and highlights open questions for future investigation.

Evolution of holocentric chromosomes: Drivers, diversity, and deterrents

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.

Mitotic chromosome condensation requires phosphorylation of the centromeric protein KNL-2 in C. elegans

Centromeres are chromosomal regions that serve as sites for kinetochore formation and microtubule attachment, processes that are essential for chromosome segregation during mitosis. Centromeres are almost universally defined by the histone variant CENP-A. In the holocentric nematode C. elegans, CENP-A deposition depends on the loading factor KNL-2. Depletion of either CENP-A or KNL-2 results in defects in centromere maintenance, chromosome condensation and kinetochore formation, leading to chromosome segregation failure. Here, we show that KNL-2 is phosphorylated by CDK-1 in vitro, and that mutation of three C-terminal phosphorylation sites causes chromosome segregation defects and an increase in embryonic lethality. In strains expressing phosphodeficient KNL-2, CENP-A and kinetochore proteins are properly localised, indicating that the role of KNL-2 in centromere maintenance is not affected. Instead, the mutant embryos exhibit reduced mitotic levels of condensin II on chromosomes and significant chromosome condensation impairment. Our findings separate the functions of KNL-2 in CENP-A loading and chromosome condensation, and demonstrate that KNL-2 phosphorylation regulates the cooperation between centromeric regions and the condensation machinery in C. elegans.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.

Summary: Phosphorylation of the essential centromere protein KNL-2 is required for mitotic chromosome condensation, but not for the role of KNL-2 in centromere maintenance and kinetochore formation.

Transmission of chromatin states across generations in C. elegans

Epigenetic inheritance refers to the transmission of phenotypes across generations without affecting the genomic DNA sequence. Even though it has been documented in many species in fungi, animals and plants, the mechanisms underlying epigenetic inheritance are not fully uncovered. Epialleles, the heritable units of epigenetic information, can take the form of several biomolecules, including histones and their post-translational modifications (PTMs). Here, we review the recent advances in the understanding of the transmission of histone variants and histone PTM patterns across generations in C. elegans. We provide a general overview of the intergenerational and transgenerational inheritance of histone PTMs and their modifiers and discuss the interplay among different histone PTMs. We also evaluate soma-germ line communication and its impact on the inheritance of epigenetic traits.

High-resolution, genome-wide mapping of positive supercoiling in chromosomes

Supercoiling impacts DNA replication, transcription, protein binding to DNA, and the three-dimensional organization of chromosomes. However, there are currently no methods to directly interrogate or map positive supercoils, so their distribution in genomes remains unknown. Here, we describe a method, GapR-seq, based on the chromatin immunoprecipitation of GapR, a bacterial protein that preferentially recognizes overtwisted DNA, for generating high-resolution maps of positive supercoiling. Applying this method to Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, we find that positive supercoiling is widespread, associated with transcription, and particularly enriched between convergently oriented genes, consistent with the 'twin-domain' model of supercoiling. In yeast, we also find positive supercoils associated with centromeres, cohesin-binding sites, autonomously replicating sites, and the borders of R-loops (DNA-RNA hybrids). Our results suggest that GapR-seq is a powerful approach, likely applicable in any organism, to investigate aspects of chromosome structure and organization not accessible by Hi-C or other existing methods.

Rewiring Meiosis for Crop Improvement

Meiosis is a specialized cell division that contributes to halve the genome content and reshuffle allelic combinations between generations in sexually reproducing eukaryotes. During meiosis, a large number of programmed DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are formed throughout the genome. Repair of meiotic DSBs facilitates the pairing of homologs and forms crossovers which are the reciprocal exchange of genetic information between chromosomes. Meiotic recombination also influences centromere organization and is essential for proper chromosome segregation. Accordingly, meiotic recombination drives genome evolution and is a powerful tool for breeders to create new varieties important to food security. Modifying meiotic recombination has the potential to accelerate plant breeding but it can also have detrimental effects on plant performance by breaking beneficial genetic linkages. Therefore, it is essential to gain a better understanding of these processes in order to develop novel strategies to facilitate plant breeding. Recent progress in targeted recombination technologies, chromosome engineering, and an increasing knowledge in the control of meiotic chromosome segregation has significantly increased our ability to manipulate meiosis. In this review, we summarize the latest findings and technologies on meiosis in plants. We also highlight recent attempts and future directions to manipulate crossover events and control the meiotic division process in a breeding perspective.

Transgenerational inheritance of centromere identity requires the CENP-A N-terminal tail in the C. elegans maternal germ line

Centromere protein A (CENP-A) is a histone H3 variant that defines centromeric chromatin and is essential for centromere function. In most eukaryotes, CENP-A-containing chromatin is epigenetically maintained, and centromere identity is inherited from one cell cycle to the next. In the germ line of the holocentric nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, this inheritance cycle is disrupted. CENP-A is removed at the mitosis-to-meiosis transition and is reestablished on chromatin during diplotene of meiosis I. Here, we show that the N-terminal tail of CENP-A is required for the de novo establishment of centromeres, but then its presence becomes dispensable for centromere maintenance during development. Worms homozygous for a CENP-A tail deletion maintain functional centromeres during development but give rise to inviable offspring because they fail to reestablish centromeres in the maternal germ line. We identify the N-terminal tail of CENP-A as a critical domain for the interaction with the conserved kinetochore protein KNL-2 and argue that this interaction plays an important role in setting centromere identity in the germ line. We conclude that centromere establishment and maintenance are functionally distinct in C. elegans.

The Centromere Histone Is Conserved and Associated with Tandem Repeats Sharing a Conserved 19-bp Box in the Holocentromere of Meloidogyne Nematodes

Although centromeres have conserved function, centromere-specific histone H3 (CenH3) and centromeric DNA evolve rapidly. The centromere drive model explains this phenomenon as a consequence of the conflict between fast-evolving DNA and CenH3, suggesting asymmetry in female meiosis as a crucial factor. We characterized evolution of the CenH3 protein in three closely related, polyploid mitotic parthenogenetic species of the Meloidogyne incognita group, and in the distantly related meiotic parthenogen Meloidogyne hapla. We identified duplication of the CenH3 gene in a putative sexual ancestral Meloidogyne. We found that one CenH3 (αCenH3) remained conserved in all extant species, including in distant Meloidogyne hapla, whereas the other evolved rapidly and under positive selection into four different CenH3 variants. This pattern of CenH3 evolution in Meloidogyne species suggests the subspecialization of CenH3s in ancestral sexual species. Immunofluorescence performed on mitotic Meloidogyne incognita revealed a dominant role of αCenH3 on its centromere, whereas the other CenH3s have lost their function in mitosis. The observed αCenH3 chromosome distribution disclosed cluster-like centromeric organization. The ChIP-Seq analysis revealed that in M. incognita αCenH3-associated DNA dominantly comprises tandem repeats, composed of divergent monomers which share a completely conserved 19-bp long box. Conserved αCenH3-associated DNA is also confirmed in the related mitotic Meloidogyne incognita group species suggesting preservation of both centromere protein and DNA constituents. We hypothesize that the absence of centromere drive in mitosis might allow for CenH3 and its associated DNA to achieve an equilibrium in which they can persist for long periods of time.

The Elusive Structure of Centro-Chromatin: Molecular Order or Dynamic Heterogenetity?

The centromere is an essential chromatin domain required for kinetochore recruitment and chromosome segregation in eukaryotes. To perform this role, centro-chromatin adopts a unique structure that provides access to kinetochore proteins and maintains stability under tension during mitosis. This is achieved by the presence of nucleosomes containing the H3 variant CENP-A, which also acts as the epigenetic mark defining the centromere. In this review, we discuss the role of CENP-A on the structure and dynamics of centromeric chromatin. We further discuss the impact of the CENP-A binding proteins CENP-C, CENP-N, and CENP-B on modulating centro-chromatin structure. Based on these findings we provide an overview of the higher order structure of the centromere.

Dark Matter of Primate Genomes: Satellite DNA Repeats and Their Evolutionary Dynamics

A substantial portion of the primate genome is composed of non-coding regions, so-called "dark matter", which includes an abundance of tandemly repeated sequences called satellite DNA. Collectively known as the satellitome, this genomic component offers exciting evolutionary insights into aspects of primate genome biology that raise new questions and challenge existing paradigms. A complete human reference genome was recently reported with telomere-to-telomere human X chromosome assembly that resolved hundreds of dark regions, encompassing a 3.1 Mb centromeric satellite array that had not been identified previously. With the recent exponential increase in the availability of primate genomes, and the development of modern genomic and bioinformatics tools, extensive growth in our knowledge concerning the structure, function, and evolution of satellite elements is expected. The current state of knowledge on this topic is summarized, highlighting various types of primate-specific satellite repeats to compare their proportions across diverse lineages. Inter- and intraspecific variation of satellite repeats in the primate genome are reviewed. The functional significance of these sequences is discussed by describing how the transcriptional activity of satellite repeats can affect gene expression during different cellular processes. Sex-linked satellites are outlined, together with their respective genomic organization. Mechanisms are proposed whereby satellite repeats might have emerged as novel sequences during different evolutionary phases. Finally, the main challenges that hinder the detection of satellite DNA are outlined and an overview of the latest methodologies to address technological limitations is presented.

Plant Histone HTB (H2B) Variants in Regulating Chromatin Structure and Function

Besides chemical modification of histone proteins, chromatin dynamics can be modulated by histone variants. Most organisms possess multiple genes encoding for core histone proteins, which are highly similar in amino acid sequence. The Arabidopsis thaliana genome contains 11 genes encoding for histone H2B (HTBs), 13 for H2A (HTAs), 15 for H3 (HTRs), and 8 genes encoding for histone H4 (HFOs). The finding that histone variants may be expressed in specific tissues and/or during specific developmental stages, often displaying specific nuclear localization and involvement in specific nuclear processes suggests that histone variants have evolved to carry out specific functions in regulating chromatin structure and function and might be important for better understanding of growth and development and particularly the response to stress. In this review, we will elaborate on a group of core histone proteins in Arabidopsis, namely histone H2B, summarize existing data, and illuminate the potential function of H2B variants in regulating chromatin structure and function in Arabidopsis thaliana.

Adaptations for centromere function in meiosis

The aim of mitosis is to segregate duplicated chromosomes equally into daughter cells during cell division. Meiosis serves a similar purpose, but additionally separates homologous chromosomes to produce haploid gametes for sexual reproduction. Both mitosis and meiosis rely on centromeres for the segregation of chromosomes. Centromeres are the specialized regions of the chromosomes that are attached to microtubules during their segregation. In this review, we describe the adaptations and layers of regulation that are required for centromere function during meiosis, and their role in meiosis-specific processes such as homolog-pairing and recombination. Since female meiotic divisions are asymmetric, meiotic centromeres are hypothesized to evolve quickly in order to favor their own transmission to the offspring, resulting in the rapid evolution of many centromeric proteins. We discuss this observation using the example of the histone variant CENP-A, which marks the centromere and is essential for centromere function. Changes in both the size and the sequence of the CENP-A N-terminal tail have led to additional functions of the protein, which are likely related to its roles during meiosis. We highlight the importance of CENP-A in the inheritance of centromere identity, which is dependent on the stabilization, recycling, or re-establishment of CENP-A-containing chromatin during meiosis.

Functional Significance of Satellite DNAs: Insights From Drosophila

Since their discovery more than 60 years ago, satellite repeats are still one of the most enigmatic parts of eukaryotic genomes. Being non-coding DNA, satellites were earlier considered to be non-functional “junk,” but recently this concept has been extensively revised. Satellite DNA contributes to the essential processes of formation of crucial chromosome structures, heterochromatin establishment, dosage compensation, reproductive isolation, genome stability and development. Genomic abundance of satellites is under stabilizing selection owing of their role in the maintenance of vital regions of the genome – centromeres, pericentromeric regions, and telomeres. Many satellites are transcribed with the generation of long or small non-coding RNAs. Misregulation of their expression is found to lead to various defects in the maintenance of genomic architecture, chromosome segregation and gametogenesis. This review summarizes our current knowledge concerning satellite functions, the mechanisms of regulation and evolution of satellites, focusing on recent findings in Drosophila. We discuss here experimental and bioinformatics data obtained in Drosophila in recent years, suggesting relevance of our analysis to a wide range of eukaryotic organisms.

Epigenetics and genome stability

Maintaining genome stability is essential to an organism's health and survival. Breakdown of the mechanisms protecting the genome and the resulting genome instability are an important aspect of the aging process and have been linked to diseases such as cancer. Thus, a large network of interconnected pathways is responsible for ensuring genome integrity in the face of the continuous challenges that induce DNA damage. While these pathways are diverse, epigenetic mechanisms play a central role in many of them. DNA modifications, histone variants and modifications, chromatin structure, and non-coding RNAs all carry out a variety of functions to ensure that genome stability is maintained. Epigenetic mechanisms ensure the functions of centromeres and telomeres that are essential for genome stability. Epigenetic mechanisms also protect the genome from the invasion by transposable elements and contribute to various DNA repair pathways. In this review, we highlight the integral role of epigenetic mechanisms in the maintenance of genome stability and draw attention to issues in need of further study.

Chromatin Organization in Early Land Plants Reveals an Ancestral Association between H3K27me3, Transposons, and Constitutive Heterochromatin

Genome packaging by nucleosomes is a hallmark of eukaryotes. Histones and the pathways that deposit, remove, and read histone modifications are deeply conserved. Yet, we lack information regarding chromatin landscapes in extant representatives of ancestors of the main groups of eukaryotes, and our knowledge of the evolution of chromatin-related processes is limited. We used the bryophyte Marchantia polymorpha, which diverged from vascular plants circa 400 mya, to obtain a whole chromosome genome assembly and explore the chromatin landscape and three-dimensional genome organization in an early diverging land plant lineage. Based on genomic profiles of ten chromatin marks, we conclude that the relationship between active marks and gene expression is conserved across land plants. In contrast, we observed distinctive features of transposons and other repetitive sequences in Marchantia compared with flowering plants. Silenced transposons and repeats did not accumulate around centromeres. Although a large fraction of constitutive heterochromatin was marked by H3K9 methylation as in flowering plants, a significant proportion of transposons were marked by H3K27me3, which is otherwise dedicated to the transcriptional repression of protein-coding genes in flowering plants. Chromatin compartmentalization analyses of Hi-C data revealed that repressed B compartments were densely decorated with H3K27me3 but not H3K9 or DNA methylation as reported in flowering plants. We conclude that, in early plants, H3K27me3 played an essential role in heterochromatin function, suggesting an ancestral role of this mark in transposon silencing.

A genetic toolbox for metabolic engineering of Issatchenkia orientalis

The nonconventional yeast Issatchenkia orientalis can grow under highly acidic conditions and has been explored for production of various organic acids. However, its broader application is hampered by the lack of efficient genetic tools to enable sophisticated metabolic manipulations. We recently constructed an episomal plasmid based on the autonomously replicating sequence (ARS) from Saccharomyces cerevisiae (ScARS) in I. orientalis and developed a CRISPR/Cas9 system for multiplexed gene deletions. Here we report three additional genetic tools including: (1) identification of a 0.8 kb centromere-like (CEN-L) sequence from the I. orientalis genome by using bioinformatics and functional screening; (2) discovery and characterization of a set of constitutive promoters and terminators under different culture conditions by using RNA-Seq analysis and a fluorescent reporter; and (3) development of a rapid and efficient in vivo DNA assembly method in I. orientalis, which exhibited ~100% fidelity when assembling a 7 kb-plasmid from seven DNA fragments ranging from 0.7 kb to 1.7 kb. As proof of concept, we used these genetic tools to rapidly construct a functional xylose utilization pathway in I. orientalis.

The epigenetic regulation of centromeres and telomeres in plants and animals

The centromere is a chromosomal region where the kinetochore is formed, which is the attachment point of spindle fibers. Thus, it is responsible for the correct chromosome segregation during cell division. Telomeres protect chromosome ends against enzymatic degradation and fusions, and localize chromosomes in the cell nucleus. For this reason, centromeres and telomeres are parts of each linear chromosome that are necessary for their proper functioning. More and more research results show that the identity and functions of these chromosomal regions are epigenetically determined. Telomeres and centromeres are both usually described as highly condensed heterochromatin regions. However, the epigenetic nature of centromeres and telomeres is unique, as epigenetic modifications characteristic of both eu- and heterochromatin have been found in these areas. This specificity allows for the proper functioning of both regions, thereby affecting chromosome homeostasis. This review focuses on demonstrating the role of epigenetic mechanisms in the functioning of centromeres and telomeres in plants and animals.

Molecular mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance: Possible evolutionary implications

Recently interest in multi-generational epigenetic phenomena have been fuelled by highly reproducible intergenerational and transgenerational inheritance paradigms in several model organisms. Such paradigms are essential in order to begin to use genetics to unpick the mechanistic bases of how epigenetic information may be transmitted between generations; indeed great strides have been made towards understanding these mechanisms. Far less well understood is the relationship between epigenetic inheritance, ecology and evolution. In this review I focus on potential connections between laboratory studies of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance phenomena and evolutionary processes that occur in natural populations. In the first section, I consider whether transgenerational epigenetic inheritance might provide an advantage to organisms over the short term in adapting to their environment. Second, I consider whether epigenetic changes can contribute to the evolution of species by contributing to stable phenotypic variation within a population. Finally I discuss whether epigenetic changes could influence evolution by either directly or indirectly promoting DNA sequence changes that could impact phenotypic divergence. Additionally, I will discuss how epigenetic changes could influence the evolution of human cancer and thus be directly relevant for the development of this disease.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae Centromere RNA Is Negatively Regulated by Cbf1 and Its Unscheduled Synthesis Impacts CenH3 Binding

Two common features of centromeres are their transcription into noncoding centromere RNAs (cen-RNAs) and their assembly into nucleosomes that contain a centromere-specific histone H3 (cenH3). Here, we show that Saccharomyces cerevisiae cen-RNA was present in low amounts in wild-type (WT) cells, and that its appearance was tightly cell cycle-regulated, appearing and disappearing in a narrow window in S phase after centromere replication. In cells lacking Cbf1, a centromere-binding protein, cen-RNA was 5-12 times more abundant throughout the cell cycle. In WT cells, cen-RNA appearance occurred at the same time as loss of Cbf1's centromere binding, arguing that the physical presence of Cbf1 inhibits cen-RNA production. Binding of the Pif1 DNA helicase, which happens in mid-late S phase, occurred at about the same time as Cbf1 loss from the centromere, suggesting that Pif1 may facilitate this loss by its known ability to displace proteins from DNA. Cen-RNAs were more abundant in rnh1Δ cells but only in mid-late S phase. However, fork pausing at centromeres was not elevated in rnh1Δ cells but rather was due to centromere-binding proteins, including Cbf1 Strains with increased cen-RNA lost centromere plasmids at elevated rates. In cbf1Δ cells, where both the levels and the cell cycle-regulated appearance of cen-RNA were disrupted, the timing and levels of cenH3 centromere binding were perturbed. Thus, cen-RNAs are highly regulated, and disruption of this regulation correlates with changes in centromere structure and function.

Dynamic turnover of centromeres drives karyotype evolution in Drosophila

Centromeres are the basic unit for chromosome inheritance, but their evolutionary dynamics is poorly understood. We generate high-quality reference genomes for multiple Drosophila obscura group species to reconstruct karyotype evolution. All chromosomes in this lineage were ancestrally telocentric and the creation of metacentric chromosomes in some species was driven by de novo seeding of new centromeres at ancestrally gene-rich regions, independently of chromosomal rearrangements. The emergence of centromeres resulted in a drastic size increase due to repeat accumulation, and dozens of genes previously located in euchromatin are now embedded in pericentromeric heterochromatin. Metacentric chromosomes secondarily became telocentric in the pseudoobscura subgroup through centromere repositioning and a pericentric inversion. The former (peri)centric sequences left behind shrunk dramatically in size after their inactivation, yet contain remnants of their evolutionary past, including increased repeat-content and heterochromatic environment. Centromere movements are accompanied by rapid turnover of the major satellite DNA detected in (peri)centromeric regions.

Conservation, Divergence, and Functions of Centromeric Satellite DNA Families in the Bovidae

Repetitive satellite DNA (satDNA) sequences are abundant in eukaryote genomes, with a structural and functional role in centromeric function. We analyzed the nucleotide sequence and chromosomal location of the five known cattle (Bos taurus) satDNA families in seven species from the tribe Tragelaphini (Bovinae subfamily). One of the families (SAT1.723) was present at the chromosomes’ centromeres of the Tragelaphini species, as well in two more distantly related bovid species, Ovis aries and Capra hircus. Analysis of the interaction of SAT1.723 with centromeric proteins revealed that this satDNA sequence is involved in the centromeric activity in all the species analyzed and that it is preserved for at least 15–20 Myr across Bovidae species. The satDNA sequence similarity among the analyzed species reflected different stages of homogeneity/heterogeneity, revealing the evolutionary history of each satDNA family. The SAT1.723 monomer-flanking regions showed the presence of transposable elements, explaining the extensive shuffling of this satDNA between different genomic regions.

The Impact of Centromeres on Spatial Genome Architecture

The development of new technologies and experimental techniques is enabling researchers to see what was once unable to be seen. For example, the centromere was first seen as the mediator between spindle fiber and chromosome during mitosis and meiosis. Although this continues to be its most prominent role, we now know that the centromere functions beyond cellular division with important roles in genome organization and chromatin regulation. Here we aim to share the structures and functions of centromeres in various organisms beginning with the diversity of their DNA sequence anatomies. We zoom out to describe their position in the nucleus and ultimately detail the different ways they contribute to genome organization and regulation at the spatial level.

Evolutionary Origin of OwlRep, a Megasatellite DNA Associated with Adaptation of Owl Monkeys to Nocturnal Lifestyle

Rod cells of many nocturnal mammals have a “non-standard” nuclear architecture, which is called the inverted nuclear architecture. Heterochromatin localizes to the central region of the nucleus. This leads to an efficient light transmission to the outer segments of photoreceptors. Rod cells of diurnal mammals have the conventional nuclear architecture. Owl monkeys (genus Aotus) are the only taxon of simian primates that has a nocturnal or cathemeral lifestyle, and this adaptation is widely thought to be secondary. Their rod cells were shown to exhibit an intermediate chromatin distribution: a spherical heterochromatin block was found in the central region of the nucleus although it was less complete than that of typical nocturnal mammals. We recently demonstrated that the primary DNA component of this heterochromatin block was OwlRep, a megasatellite DNA consisting of 187-bp-long repeat units. However, the origin of OwlRep was not known. Here we show that OwlRep was derived from HSAT6, a simple repeat sequence found in the centromere regions of human chromosomes. HSAT6 occurs widely in primates, suggesting that it was already present in the last common ancestor of extant primates. Notably, Strepsirrhini and Tarsiformes apparently carry a single HSAT6 copy, whereas many species of Simiiformes contain multiple copies. Comparison of nucleotide sequences of these copies revealed the entire process of the OwlRep formation. HSAT6, with or without flanking sequences, was segmentally duplicated in New World monkeys. Then, in the owl monkey linage after its divergence from other New World monkeys, a copy of HSAT6 was tandemly amplified, eventually forming a megasatellite DNA.

De novo assembly of a young Drosophila Y chromosome using single-molecule sequencing and chromatin conformation capture

While short-read sequencing technology has resulted in a sharp increase in the number of species with genome assemblies, these assemblies are typically highly fragmented. Repeats pose the largest challenge for reference genome assembly, and pericentromeric regions and the repeat-rich Y chromosome are typically ignored from sequencing projects. Here, we assemble the genome of Drosophila miranda using long reads for contig formation, chromatin interaction maps for scaffolding and short reads, and optical mapping and bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) clone sequencing for consensus validation. Our assembly recovers entire chromosomes and contains large fractions of repetitive DNA, including about 41.5 Mb of pericentromeric and telomeric regions, and >100 Mb of the recently formed highly repetitive neo-Y chromosome. While Y chromosome evolution is typically characterized by global sequence loss and shrinkage, the neo-Y increased in size by almost 3-fold because of the accumulation of repetitive sequences. Our high-quality assembly allows us to reconstruct the chromosomal events that have led to the unusual sex chromosome karyotype in D. miranda, including the independent de novo formation of a pair of sex chromosomes at two distinct time points, or the reversion of a former Y chromosome to an autosome.

Simple and Complex Centromeric Satellites in Drosophila Sibling Species

Centromeres are the chromosomal sites of assembly for kinetochores, the protein complexes that attach to spindle fibers and mediate separation of chromosomes to daughter cells in mitosis and meiosis. In most multicellular organisms, centromeres comprise a single specific family of tandem repeats-often 100-400 bp in length-found on every chromosome, typically in one location within heterochromatin. Drosophila melanogaster is unusual in that the heterochromatin contains many families of mostly short (5-12 bp) tandem repeats, none of which appear to be present at all centromeres, and none of which are found only at centromeres. Although centromere sequences from a minichromosome have been identified and candidate centromere sequences have been proposed, the DNA sequences at native Drosophila centromeres remain unknown. Here we use native chromatin immunoprecipitation to identify the centromeric sequences bound by the foundational kinetochore protein cenH3, known in vertebrates as CENP-A. In D. melanogaster, these sequences include a few families of 5- and 10-bp repeats; but in closely related D. simulans, the centromeres comprise more complex repeats. The results suggest that a recent expansion of short repeats has replaced more complex centromeric repeats in D. melanogaster.

Remarkable Evolutionary Plasticity of Centromeric Chromatin

Centromeres were familiar to cell biologists in the late 19th century, but for most eukaryotes the basis for centromere specification has remained enigmatic. Much attention has been focused on the cenH3 (CENP-A) histone variant, which forms the foundation of the centromere. To investigate the DNA sequence requirements for centromere specification, we applied a variety of epigenomic approaches, which have revealed surprising diversity in centromeric chromatin properties. Whereas each point centromere of budding yeast is occupied by a single precisely positioned tetrameric nucleosome with one cenH3 molecule, the "regional" centromeres of fission yeast contain unphased presumably octameric nucleosomes with two cenH3s. In Caenorhabditis elegans, kinetochores assemble all along the chromosome at sites of cenH3 nucleosomes that resemble budding yeast point centromeres, whereas holocentric insects lack cenH3 entirely. The "satellite" centromeres of most animals and plants consist of cenH3-containing particles that are precisely positioned over homogeneous tandem repeats, but in humans, different α-satellite subfamilies are occupied by CENP-A nucleosomes with very different conformations. We suggest that this extraordinary evolutionary diversity of centromeric chromatin architectures can be understood in terms of the simplicity of the task of equal chromosome segregation that is continually subverted by selfish DNA sequences.

Epigenetic Regulation of Centromere Chromatin Stability by Dietary and Environmental Factors

The centromere is a genomic locus required for the segregation of the chromosomes during cell division. This chromosomal region together with pericentromeres has been found to be susceptible to damage, and thus the perturbation of the centromere could lead to the development of aneuploidic events. Metabolic abnormalities that underlie the generation of cancer include inflammation, oxidative stress, cell cycle deregulation, and numerous others. The micronucleus assay, an early clinical marker of cancer, has been shown to provide a reliable measure of genotoxic damage that may signal cancer initiation. In the current review, we will discuss the events that lead to micronucleus formation and centromeric and pericentromeric chromatin instability, as well transcripts emanating from these regions, which were previously thought to be inactive. Studies were selected in PubMed if they reported the effects of nutritional status (macro- and micronutrients) or environmental toxicant exposure on micronucleus frequency or any other chromosomal abnormality in humans, animals, or cell models. Mounting evidence from epidemiologic, environmental, and nutritional studies provides a novel perspective on the origination of aneuploidic events. Although substantial evidence exists describing the role that nutritional status and environmental toxicants have on the generation of micronuclei and other nuclear aberrations, limited information is available to describe the importance of macro- and micronutrients on centromeric and pericentromeric chromatin stability. Moving forward, studies that specifically address the direct link between nutritional status, excess, or deficiency and the epigenetic regulation of the centromere will provide much needed insight into the nutritional and environmental regulation of this chromosomal region and the initiation of aneuploidy.

Satellite DNA: An Evolving Topic

Satellite DNA represents one of the most fascinating parts of the repetitive fraction of the eukaryotic genome. Since the discovery of highly repetitive tandem DNA in the 1960s, a lot of literature has extensively covered various topics related to the structure, organization, function, and evolution of such sequences. Today, with the advent of genomic tools, the study of satellite DNA has regained a great interest. Thus, Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), together with high-throughput in silico analysis of the information contained in NGS reads, has revolutionized the analysis of the repetitive fraction of the eukaryotic genomes. The whole of the historical and current approaches to the topic gives us a broad view of the function and evolution of satellite DNA and its role in chromosomal evolution. Currently, we have extensive information on the molecular, chromosomal, biological, and population factors that affect the evolutionary fate of satellite DNA, knowledge that gives rise to a series of hypotheses that get on well with each other about the origin, spreading, and evolution of satellite DNA. In this paper, I review these hypotheses from a methodological, conceptual, and historical perspective and frame them in the context of chromosomal organization and evolution.

Centromeric enrichment of LINE-1 retrotransposons and its significance for the chromosome evolution of Phyllostomid bats

Despite their ubiquitous incidence, little is known about the chromosomal distribution of long interspersed elements (LINEs) in mammalian genomes. Phyllostomid bats, characterized by lineages with distinct trends of chromosomal evolution coupled with remarkable ecological and taxonomic diversity, represent good models to understand how these repetitive sequences contribute to the evolution of genome architecture and its link to lineage diversification. To test the hypothesis that LINE-1 sequences were important modifiers of bat genome architecture, we characterized the distribution of LINE-1-derived sequences on genomes of 13 phyllostomid species within a phylogenetic framework. We found massive accumulation of LINE-1 elements in the centromeres of most species: a rare phenomenon on mammalian genomes. We hypothesize that expansion of these elements has occurred early in the radiation of phyllostomids and recurred episodically. LINE-1 expansions on centromeric heterochromatin probably spurred chromosomal change before the radiation of phyllostomids into the extant 11 subfamilies and contributed to the high degree of karyotypic variation observed among different lineages. Understanding centromere architecture in a variety of taxa promises to explain how lineage-specific changes on centromere structure can contribute to karyotypic diversity while not disrupting functional constraints for proper cell division.

Evolving Centromeres and Kinetochores

The genetic material, contained on chromosomes, is often described as the "blueprint for life." During nuclear division, the chromosomes are pulled into each of the two daughter nuclei by the coordination of spindle microtubules, kinetochores, centromeres, and chromatin. These four functional units must link the chromosomes to the microtubules, signal to the cell when the attachment is made so that division can proceed, and withstand the force generated by pulling the chromosomes to either daughter cell. To perform each of these functions, kinetochores are large protein complexes, approximately 5MDa in size, and they contain at least 45 unique proteins. Many of the central components in the kinetochore are well conserved, yielding a common core of proteins forming consistent structures. However, many of the peripheral subcomplexes vary between different taxonomic groups, including changes in primary sequence and gain or loss of whole proteins. It is still unclear how significant these changes are, and answers to this question may provide insights into adaptation to specific lifestyles or progression of disease that involve chromosome instability.

Centromeric DNA Facilitates Nonconventional Yeast Genetic Engineering

Many nonconventional yeast species have highly desirable features that are not possessed by model yeasts, despite that significant technology hurdles to effectively manipulate them lay in front. Scheffersomyces stipitis is one of the most important exemplary nonconventional yeasts in biorenewables industry, which has a high native xylose utilization capacity. Recent study suggested its much better potential than Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a well-suited microbial biomanufacturing platform for producing high-value compounds derived from shikimate pathway, many of which are associated with potent nutraceutical or pharmaceutical properties. However, the broad application of S. stipitis is hampered by the lack of stable episomal expression platforms and precise genome-editing tools. Here we report the success in pinpointing the centromeric DNA as the partitioning element to guarantee stable extra-chromosomal DNA segregation. The identified centromeric sequence not only stabilized episomal plasmid, enabled homogeneous gene expression, increased the titer of a commercially relevant compound by 3-fold, and also dramatically increased gene knockout efficiency from <1% to more than 80% with the expression of CRISPR components on the new stable plasmid. This study elucidated that establishment of a stable minichromosome-like expression platform is key to achieving functional modifications of nonconventional yeast species in order to expand the current collection of microbial factories.

Structure of centromere chromatin: from nucleosome to chromosomal architecture

The centromere is essential for the segregation of chromosomes, as it serves as attachment site for microtubules to mediate chromosome segregation during mitosis and meiosis. In most organisms, the centromere is restricted to one chromosomal region that appears as primary constriction on the condensed chromosome and is partitioned into two chromatin domains: The centromere core is characterized by the centromere-specific histone H3 variant CENP-A (also called cenH3) and is required for specifying the centromere and for building the kinetochore complex during mitosis. This core region is generally flanked by pericentric heterochromatin, characterized by nucleosomes containing H3 methylated on lysine 9 (H3K9me) that are bound by heterochromatin proteins. During mitosis, these two domains together form a three-dimensional structure that exposes CENP-A-containing chromatin to the surface for interaction with the kinetochore and microtubules. At the same time, this structure supports the tension generated during the segregation of sister chromatids to opposite poles. In this review, we discuss recent insight into the characteristics of the centromere, from the specialized chromatin structures at the centromere core and the pericentromere to the three-dimensional organization of these regions that make up the functional centromere.

A noncatalytic function of the topoisomerase II CTD in Aurora B recruitment to inner centromeres during mitosis

The C-terminal domain (CTD) of Topo II is dispensable for its catalytic activity yet essential for Topo II function in chromosome segregation during mitosis. Here, Edgerton et al. resolve the role of the Topo II CTD during mitosis in yeast, showing that it functions noncatalytically via the Haspin-H3 T3-Phos pathway to recruit Ipl1/Aurora B to mitotic inner centromeres.

Faithful chromosome segregation depends on the precise timing of chromatid separation, which is enforced by checkpoint signals generated at kinetochores. Here, we provide evidence that the C-terminal domain (CTD) of DNA topoisomerase IIα (Topo II) provides a novel function at inner centromeres of kinetochores in mitosis. We find that the yeast CTD is required for recruitment of the tension checkpoint kinase Ipl1/Aurora B to inner centromeres in metaphase but is not required in interphase. Conserved CTD SUMOylation sites are required for Ipl1 recruitment. This inner-centromere CTD function is distinct from the catalytic activity of Topo II. Genetic and biochemical evidence suggests that Topo II recruits Ipl1 via the Haspin–histone H3 threonine 3 phosphorylation pathway. Finally, Topo II and Sgo1 are equally important for Ipl1 recruitment to inner centromeres. This indicates H3 T3-Phos/H2A T120-Phos is a universal epigenetic signature that defines the eukaryotic inner centromere and provides the binding site for Ipl1/Aurora B.

Integrity of the human centromere DNA repeats is protected by CENP-A, CENP-C, and CENP-T

Centromeres are highly specialized chromatin domains that enable chromosome segregation and orchestrate faithful cell division. Human centromeres are composed of tandem arrays of α-satellite DNA, which spans up to several megabases. Little is known about the mechanisms that maintain integrity of the long arrays of α-satellite DNA repeats. Here, we monitored centromeric repeat stability in human cells using chromosome-orientation fluorescent in situ hybridization (CO-FISH). This assay detected aberrant centromeric CO-FISH patterns consistent with sister chromatid exchange at the frequency of 5% in primary tissue culture cells, whereas higher levels were seen in several cancer cell lines and during replicative senescence. To understand the mechanism(s) that maintains centromere integrity, we examined the contribution of the centromere-specific histone variant CENP-A and members of the constitutive centromere-associated network (CCAN), CENP-C, CENP-T, and CENP-W. Depletion of CENP-A and CCAN proteins led to an increase in centromere aberrations, whereas enhancing chromosome missegregation by alternative methods did not, suggesting that CENP-A and CCAN proteins help maintain centromere integrity independently of their role in chromosome segregation. Furthermore, superresolution imaging of centromeric CO-FISH using structured illumination microscopy implied that CENP-A protects α-satellite repeats from extensive rearrangements. Our study points toward the presence of a centromere-specific mechanism that actively maintains α-satellite repeat integrity during human cell proliferation.

Histone variants on the move: substrates for chromatin dynamics

Most histones are assembled into nucleosomes behind the replication fork to package newly synthesized DNA. By contrast, histone variants, which are encoded by separate genes, are typically incorporated throughout the cell cycle. Histone variants can profoundly change chromatin properties, which in turn affect DNA replication and repair, transcription, and chromosome packaging and segregation. Recent advances in the study of histone replacement have elucidated the dynamic processes by which particular histone variants become substrates of histone chaperones, ATP-dependent chromatin remodellers and histone-modifying enzymes. Here, we review histone variant dynamics and the effects of replacing DNA synthesis-coupled histones with their replication-independent variants on the chromatin landscape.

Dynamic chromatin changes associated with de novo centromere formation in maize euchromatin

The inheritance and function of centromeres are not strictly dependent on any specific DNA sequence, but involve an epigenetic component in most species. CENH3, a centromere histone H3 variant, is one of the best-described epigenetic factors in centromere identity, but the chromatin features required during centromere formation have not yet been revealed. We previously identified two de novo centromeres on Zea mays (maize) minichromosomes derived from euchromatic sites with high-density gene distributions but low-density transposon distributions. The distribution of gene location and gene expression in these sites indicates that transcriptionally active regions can initiate de novo centromere formation, and CENH3 seeding shows a preference for gene-free regions or regions with no gene expression. The locations of the expressed genes detected were at relatively hypomethylated loci, and the altered gene expression resulted from de novo centromere formation, but not from the additional copy of the minichromosome. The initial overall DNA methylation level of the two de novo regions was at a low level, but increased substantially to that of native centromeres after centromere formation. These results illustrate the dynamic chromatin changes during euchromatin-originated de novo centromere formation, which provides insight into the mechanism of de novo centromere formation and regulation of subsequent consequences.

Loss of Tau protein affects the structure, transcription and repair of neuronal pericentromeric heterochromatin

Pericentromeric heterochromatin (PCH) gives rise to highly dense chromatin sub-structures rich in the epigenetic mark corresponding to the trimethylated form of lysine 9 of histone H3 (H3K9me3) and in heterochromatin protein 1α (HP1α), which regulate genome expression and stability. We demonstrate that Tau, a protein involved in a number of neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease (AD), binds to and localizes within or next to neuronal PCH in primary neuronal cultures from wild-type mice. Concomitantly, we show that the clustered distribution of H3K9me3 and HP1α, two hallmarks of PCH, is disrupted in neurons from Tau-deficient mice (KOTau). Such altered distribution of H3K9me3 that could be rescued by overexpressing nuclear Tau protein was also observed in neurons from AD brains. Moreover, the expression of PCH non-coding RNAs, involved in PCH organization, was disrupted in KOTau neurons that displayed an abnormal accumulation of stress-induced PCH DNA breaks. Altogether, our results demonstrate a new physiological function of Tau in directly regulating neuronal PCH integrity that appears disrupted in AD neurons.

A Positive Twist to the Centromeric Nucleosome

Centromeric nucleosomes are critical for chromosome attachment to the mitotic spindle. In this issue of Cell Reports, Diaz-Ingelmo et al. (2015) propose that the yeast centromeric nucleosome is stabilized by a positively supercoiled loop formed by the sequence-specific CBF3 complex.

Differential Chromosomal Localization of Centromeric Histone CENP-A Contributes to Nematode Programmed DNA Elimination

The stability of the genome is paramount to organisms. However, diverse eukaryotes carry out programmed DNA elimination in which portions or entire chromsomes are lost in early development or during sex determination. During early development of the parasitic nematode, Ascaris suum, 13% of the genome is eliminated. How different genomic segments are reproducibly retained or discarded is unknown. Here, we show that centromeric histone CENP-A localization plays a key role in this process. We show that Ascaris chromosomes are holocentric during germline mitoses, with CENP-A distributed along their length. Prior to DNA elimination in the four-cell embryo, CENP-A is significantly diminished in chromosome regions that will be lost. This leads to the absence of kinetochores and microtubule attachment sites necessary for chromosome segregation, resulting in loss of these regions upon mitosis. Our data suggest that changes in CENP-A localization specify which portions of chromosomes will be lost during programmed DNA elimination.

Holocentromere identity: from the typical mitotic linear structure to the great plasticity of meiotic holocentromeres

The centromere is the chromosomal site of kinetochore assembly and is responsible for the correct chromosome segregation during mitosis and meiosis in eukaryotes. Contrary to monocentrics, holocentric chromosomes lack a primary constriction, what is attributed to a kinetochore activity along almost the entire chromosome length during mitosis. This extended centromere structure imposes a problem during meiosis, since sister holocentromeres are not co-oriented during first meiotic division. Thus, regardless of the relatively conserved somatic chromosome structure of holocentrics, during meiosis holocentric chromosomes show different adaptations to deal with this condition. Recent findings in holocentrics have brought back the discussion of the great centromere plasticity of eukaryotes, from the typical CENH3-based holocentromeres to CENH3-less holocentric organisms. Here, we summarize recent and former findings about centromere/kinetochore adaptations shown by holocentric organisms during mitosis and meiosis and discuss how these adaptations are related to the type of meiosis found.

Restructuring of Holocentric Centromeres During Meiosis in the Plant Rhynchospora pubera

Centromeres are responsible for the correct segregation of chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis. Holocentric chromosomes, characterized by multiple centromere units along each chromatid, have particular adaptations to ensure regular disjunction during meiosis. Here we show by detecting CENH3, CENP-C, tubulin, and centromeric repeats that holocentromeres may be organized differently in mitosis and meiosis of Rhynchospora pubera Contrasting to the mitotic linear holocentromere organization, meiotic centromeres show several clusters of centromere units (cluster-holocentromeres) during meiosis I. They accumulate along the poleward surface of bivalents where spindle fibers perpendicularly attach. During meiosis II, the cluster-holocentromeres are mostly present in the midregion of each chromatid. A linear holocentromere organization is restored after meiosis during pollen mitosis. Thus, a not yet described case of a cluster-holocentromere organization, showing a clear centromere restructuration between mitosis and meiosis, was identified in a holocentric organism.

Cytogenetic Insights into the Evolution of Chromosomes and Sex Determination Reveal Striking Homology of Turtle Sex Chromosomes to Amphibian Autosomes

Turtle karyotypes are highly conserved compared to other vertebrates; yet, variation in diploid number (2n = 26-68) reflects profound genomic reorganization, which correlates with evolutionary turnovers in sex determination. We evaluate the published literature and newly collected comparative cytogenetic data (G- and C-banding, 18S-NOR, and telomere-FISH mapping) from 13 species spanning 2n = 28-68 to revisit turtle genome evolution and sex determination. Interstitial telomeric sites were detected in multiple lineages that underwent diploid number and sex determination turnovers, suggesting chromosomal rearrangements. C-banding revealed potential interspecific variation in centromere composition and interstitial heterochromatin at secondary constrictions. 18S-NORs were detected in secondary constrictions in a single chromosomal pair per species, refuting previous reports of multiple NORs in turtles. 18S-NORs are linked to ZW chromosomes in Apalone and Pelodiscus and to X (not Y) in Staurotypus. Notably, comparative genomics across amniotes revealed that the sex chromosomes of several turtles, as well as mammals and some lizards, are homologous to components of Xenopus tropicalis XTR1 (carrying Dmrt1). Other turtle sex chromosomes are homologous to XTR4 (carrying Wt1). Interestingly, all known turtle sex chromosomes, except in Trionychidae, evolved via inversions around Dmrt1 or Wt1. Thus, XTR1 appears to represent an amniote proto-sex chromosome (perhaps linked ancestrally to XTR4) that gave rise to turtle and other amniote sex chromosomes.

Gene silencing and sex determination by programmed DNA elimination in parasitic nematodes

Maintenance of genome integrity is essential. However, programmed DNA elimination removes specific DNA sequences from the genome during development. DNA elimination occurs in unicellular ciliates and diverse metazoa ranging from nematodes to vertebrates. Two distinct groups of nematodes use DNA elimination to silence germline-expressed genes in the soma (ascarids) or for sex determination (Strongyloides spp.). Data suggest that DNA elimination likely evolved independently in these nematodes. Recent studies indicate that differential CENP-A deposition within chromosomes defines which sequences are retained and lost during Ascaris DNA elimination. Additional studies are needed to determine the distribution, functions, and mechanisms of DNA elimination in nematodes.

The major horse satellite DNA family is associated with centromere competence

Background

The centromere is the specialized locus required for correct chromosome segregation during cell division. The DNA of most eukaryotic centromeres is composed of extended arrays of tandem repeats (satellite DNA). In the horse, we previously showed that, although the centromere of chromosome 11 is completely devoid of tandem repeat arrays, all other centromeres are characterized by the presence of satellite DNA. We isolated three horse satellite DNA sequences (37cen, 2P1 and EC137) and described their chromosomal localization in four species of the genus Equus.

Results

In the work presented here, using the ChIP-seq methodology, we showed that, in the horse, the 37cen satellite binds CENP-A, the centromere-specific histone-H3 variant. The 37cen sequence bound by CENP-A is GC-rich with 221 bp units organized in a head-to-tail fashion. The physical interaction of CENP-A with 37cen was confirmed through slot blot experiments. Immuno-FISH on stretched chromosomes and chromatin fibres demonstrated that the extension of satellite DNA stretches is variable and is not related to the organization of CENP-A binding domains. Finally, we proved that the centromeric satellite 37cen is transcriptionally active.

Conclusions

Our data offer new insights into the organization of horse centromeres. Although three different satellite DNA families are cytogenetically located at centromeres, only the 37cen family is associated to the centromeric function. Moreover, similarly to other species, CENP-A binding domains are variable in size. The transcriptional competence of the 37cen satellite that we observed adds new evidence to the hypothesis that centromeric transcripts may be required for centromere function.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13039-016-0242-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.