PRDM9 directs where crossing over happens, shaping genome diversity.
PRDM9 binds sequence motifs and trimethylates histones, directing SPO11 to make breaks. Hotspots evolve rapidly. In mammals, about 1 to 2 crossovers per chromosome arm. Dogs lack functional PRDM9.
Hotspots occupy a small part of the genome. They shift over evolutionary time. Crossovers are required for proper segregation.
Key idea: recombination is not uniform across the genome.
PRDM9 directs where crossing over happens, shaping genome diversity.
Meiotic Recombination Hotspots is one of the 54 topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Evolution of Placentation, Sexual Reproduction, Circadian Endocrinology.
Variation in PRDM9 affects recombination patterns between people.
Work through the Beginner topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology first, such as Reproduction, Asexual Reproduction, Sexual Reproduction, then return to Meiotic Recombination Hotspots. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
The closest topics to Meiotic Recombination Hotspots are Evolution of Placentation, Sexual Reproduction, Circadian Endocrinology, Gametes. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Meiotic Recombination Hotspots. To practise the whole of Reproduction & Endocrinology, use the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz.
Meiotic Recombination Hotspots: PRDM9 directs where crossing over happens, shaping genome diversity. Evolution of Placentation: Viviparity and the placenta evolved independently many times across vertebrates. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Evolution of Placentation and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.
Viviparity and the placenta evolved independently many times across vertebrates.
🌸 Reproduction & EndocrinologyTwo gametes fuse, mixing genetic material to produce varied offspring.
🌸 Reproduction & EndocrinologyHormone levels follow daily cycles, with cortisol peaking in the morning and melatonin at night.
🌸 Reproduction & EndocrinologyHaploid sex cells, sperm and egg, that fuse at fertilisation.
🌸 Reproduction & Endocrinology