Gene conversion
Gene conversion is a molecular biological process where one DNA sequence replaces a homologous sequence such that the sequences become identical after the conversion event. Gene conversion can be either allelic, or ectopic:
- Allelic gene conversion occurs between two alleles of the same gene, which are located at the same locus on homologous chromosomes.
- Ectopic gene conversion occurs between sequences that are similar but not alleles. They are located at different loci on the same or on different chromosomes.
Mechanism[edit | edit source]
Gene conversion occurs during meiosis, the process that generates gametes for sexual reproduction. It begins when a double-strand break occurs in one of the two DNA molecules. The broken DNA molecule uses the intact homologous DNA sequence as a template to repair the break. This process is called homologous recombination.
Consequences[edit | edit source]
Gene conversion can have significant effects on genetic diversity. It can increase the frequency of a beneficial allele in a population, and it can also contribute to the maintenance of harmful alleles. Gene conversion can also lead to the evolution of new genes.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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