The non-Mendelian behavior of plant B chromosomes.

ABSTRACT: B chromosomes, also known as supernumerary chromosomes, are dispensable elements in the genome of many plants, animals, and fungi. Many B chromosomes have evolved one or more drive mechanisms to transmit themselves at a higher frequency than predicted by Mendelian genetics, and these mechanisms counteract the tendency of non-essential genetic elements to be lost over time. The frequency of Bs in a population results from a balance between their effect on host fitness and their transmission rate. Here, we will summarize the findings of the drive process of plant B chromosomes, focusing on maize and rye.

SUBMITTER: Chen J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9508019 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature