Abstract

To understand how DNA sequence is translated to phenotype we must understand the epigenetic features that regulate gene expression. Recent research illuminates the complex interactions between DNA methylation, small RNAs, silencing of transposable elements, and genomic imprinting in the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) seed. These studies suggest that transposable elements reactivated in specific cells of the gametophyte and seed might enhance silencing of transposable elements in the germline and embryo. By sacrificing genomic integrity these cells might make an epigenetic rather than genetic contribution to the progeny. This research could have implications for interspecies hybridization, the evolution of genomic imprinting, and epigenetic communication from plant to progeny.

Published in

Trends in Plant Science
2010, Volume: 15, number: 4, pages: 204-210
Publisher: Elsevier {BV}

SLU Authors

• Melnyk, Charles

  • Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

UKÄ Subject classification

Genetics


Publication identifier

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tplants.2010.01.002

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/84655