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Chromosomal Instability in Genome Evolution: From Cancer to Macroevolution
Valentine Comaills1, Maikel Castellano-Pozo1,2
1Andalusian Center for Molecular Biology and Regenerative Medicine-CABIMER, University of Pablo de Olavide-University of Seville-CSIC, Junta de Andalucía, 41092 Seville, Spain.
Biology
|May 27, 2023
Summary
Chromosomal instability (CIN) drives genomic diversity crucial for evolution and tumor progression. Understanding CIN mechanisms, like double-strand breaks, is vital for treating diseases including cancer.
Area of Science:
- Genomics
- Evolutionary Biology
- Cancer Biology
Background:
- Genome integrity is essential for life, but adaptation requires genomic diversification.
- Chromosomal instability (CIN) generates genomic heterogeneity by altering chromosome number and structure.
- CIN plays roles in speciation, evolution, and tumor progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review chromosomal patterns and changes associated with CIN.
- To explore the similarities between genomic changes in speciation and tumor progression.
- To discuss the origins and consequences of CIN, including its link to diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of chromosomal changes in speciation, evolution, and cancer.
- Analysis of mechanisms leading to CIN, such as double-strand breaks (DSBs) and micronuclei.
- Comparison of genomic alterations during meiosis, tumorigenesis, and speciation.
Main Results:
- CIN creates genomic heterogeneity through whole genome doubling and complex chromosomal rearrangements like chromothripsis.
- Genomic evolution during speciation mirrors changes seen in tumor progression and therapy resistance.
- CIN arises from mechanisms including DSBs and errors in homologous recombination during meiosis.
Conclusions:
- CIN is a fundamental mechanism for genomic adaptation and diversification.
- Similarities exist between CIN in speciation and tumor progression, highlighting conserved evolutionary processes.
- Understanding CIN is critical for comprehending tumor development and associated diseases like infertility, miscarriage, genetic disorders, and cancer.
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