Paramutation in maize: RNA mediated trans-generational gene silencing

Curr Opin Genet Dev. 2010 Apr;20(2):156-63. doi: 10.1016/j.gde.2010.01.008. Epub 2010 Feb 12.

Abstract

Paramutation involves trans-interactions between alleles or homologous sequences that establish distinct gene expression states that are heritable for generations. It was first described in maize by Alexander Brink in the 1950s, with his studies of the red1 (r1) locus. Since that time, paramutation-like phenomena have been reported in other maize genes, other plants, fungi, and animals. Paramutation can occur between endogenous genes, two transgenes or an endogenous gene, and transgene. Recent results indicate that paramutation involves RNA-mediated heritable chromatin changes and a number of genes implicated in RNAi pathways. However, not all aspects of paramutation can be explained by known mechanisms of RNAi-mediated transcriptional silencing.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alleles
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
  • Gene Silencing*
  • Models, Genetic*
  • Mutation
  • Plant Proteins / genetics
  • RNA, Plant / genetics*
  • RNA, Plant / metabolism
  • RNA, Small Interfering / genetics
  • RNA, Small Interfering / metabolism
  • Zea mays / genetics*
  • Zea mays / metabolism

Substances

  • Plant Proteins
  • RNA, Plant
  • RNA, Small Interfering