Ancient genome function persists despite frequent mutations, centromere study shows
Every time a cell divides, its chromosomes must be distributed correctly between the two daughter cells. Central to this process is the centromere, a specialized region of the chromosome. The centromere serves as the attachment site for the cellular machinery that pulls the chromosomes apart.
A recent study published in Nature reveals that centromeres, essential regions of chromosomes that have remained functional for nearly 2 billion years of evolution, undergo rapid DNA mutations. Despite the high mutation rate, centromeres maintain their repetitive structure. Researchers discovered that centromeres accumulate point mutations at ten times the rate of other chromosome regions.
Additionally, frequent insertions and deletions usually add or remove complete repeat units, preserving the centromere's architectural integrity. Through simulations, the researchers showed that small mutations gradually create large blocks of repetitive DNA, which closely resemble the structures observed in natural centromeres.
This finding helps explain how centromeres can evolve rapidly while retaining their critical function in cell division.
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