Stability of Circularized Chromosomes Lacking Telomeres in Saccharomyces Cerevisiae

Overview

Chromosomes carry genetic information. Prokaryotic chromosomes are circular, whereas eukaryotic chromosomes are linear. Telomeres, repetitive DNA sequences at chromosome termini, serve as caps to avoid losing important genes during cell division; with each division, telomeres shorten. This imposes a limit on the number of divisions a cell can undergo. To understand why eukaryotes evolved to have linear chromosomes despite their seeming disadvantages, we have genetically engineered the chromosomes of Saccharomyces cerevisiae to create circularized versions, allowing comparison of the two forms. By inserting unique DNA cassettes into subtelomeric regions of each chromosome arm, we allow recombination between them and thus circularization of the chromosome. Our lab has circularized four of the sixteen yeast chromosomes (Ch. II, IV, VIII, and XV). Some of the chromosomes have been difficult to achieve integration and circularization; I have tested Ch. I, III, and VI and have yet to circularize them. Using our circularized strains, I have begun investigating generational stability of the circularized chromosomes by serial restreaking and monitoring for loss of circularized chromosomes. Understanding the effects of circular chromosomes in eukaryotes and thus why linear chromosomes evolved opens opportunities for investigation of two large human health concerns: aging and cancer.

Competition history

• AJAS 2024 Category not listed

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