Researchers generate whole-genome map of fruit fly genetic recombination
Thursday, March 17, 2016 - 13:01
in Biology & Nature
As eggs and sperm, or gametes, are formed during meiosis, chromosomes carrying the genetic material from each parent must find their partners, pair, and exchange parts of their DNA. This recombination is an important driving force behind genetic variability and evolution, but most importantly, it ensures that chromosomes move properly during the subsequent divisions that form these gametes. When recombination doesn't go smoothly, it can cause a number of problems in humans, including miscarriages and birth defects.