Recombinational DSBs-intersected genes converge on specific disease- and adaptability-related pathways

Area of Science:

• Eukaryotic molecular biology
• Population genomics
• Evolutionary biology

Background:

• Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a key model organism for studying eukaryotic recombination.
• Previous studies relied on experimental methods, necessitating a population genomic approach for broader and more accurate recombination detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a population genomic analysis of recombination in S. cerevisiae.
• To uncover the relationship between recombination and evolution in eukaryotes.

Main Methods:

• Population genomic analysis of S. cerevisiae.
• Identification and analysis of genes intersected by recombinational double-strand breaks (DSBs).
• Evolutionary conservation analysis of these intersected genes.

Main Results:

• Clinical yeast strains exhibit significantly more and longer recombination events compared to other strains, suggesting adaptation to adverse environments.
• Genes involved in recombination (RDIGs) are enriched in pathways related to disease and environmental adaptability, including human neurological disorders.
• Highly prevalent RDIGs in yeast populations are evolutionarily conserved, highlighting their importance for survival.

Conclusions:

• Recombination plays a critical role in repairing DSBs associated with disease and adaptation.
• Evolutionary conservation of RDIGs underscores their essential function in ensuring eukaryotic fitness and survival.