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Overdrive is essential for targeted sperm elimination by Segregation Distorter.

Jackson T Ridges1, Jackson Bladen1, Thomas D King1

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Selfish chromosomes drive genome evolution by eliminating competing sperm. The Overdrive (Ovd) gene acts as a spermatid quality checkpoint, hijacked by selfish elements to ensure their own transmission.

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Area of Science:

  • Evolutionary genetics
  • Genomics
  • Reproductive biology

Background:

  • Intra-genomic conflict via selfish chromosomes shapes genome evolution.
  • Selfish chromosomes bias their transmission by eliminating competing gametes in the male germline.
  • Mechanisms of targeted gamete elimination are largely unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the mechanism of targeted spermatid elimination.
  • To identify genes involved in segregation distortion and hybrid male sterility.
  • To understand the role of the Overdrive (Ovd) gene in gamete elimination.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative genomics to assess Ovd conservation in Dipteran insects.
  • Genetic analysis in Drosophila melanogaster to study Ovd function in the Segregation Distorter system.
  • Analysis of spermatid elimination post-histone-to-protamine transition.

Main Results:

  • The Overdrive (Ovd) gene is broadly conserved in Dipteran insects but not essential for viability or fertility.
  • Ovd is crucial for targeted Responder spermatid elimination in Drosophila melanogaster.
  • This elimination occurs after the histone-to-protamine transition.

Conclusions:

  • Ovd functions as a general spermatid quality checkpoint.
  • Selfish chromosomes hijack Ovd to eliminate competing gametes.
  • This provides a potential mechanism for targeted gamete elimination driven by intra-genomic conflict.