How the Redox Cycle Affects Genetic Variation in Yeast
Author Information
Author(s): Viktor Stolc, Alena Shmygelska, Yuri Griko
Primary Institution: NASA Ames Research Center
Hypothesis
The temporal nature of the redox cycle and its chemical products may accumulate non-random DNA sequence variation during RNA transcription.
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that the redox cycle influences genetic variation in yeast by affecting the frequency of mutations during RNA transcription.
Supporting Evidence
- The study found that the frequency of sequence variation in genes transcribed during the oxidative phase is higher than in the reductive phase.
- Results indicated that the redox cycle influences the mutation rate across the genome.
- Evidence was provided for a feedback mechanism between the environment and genetic variation.
Takeaway
This study shows that the way cells use energy can change their DNA over time, helping them adapt to their environment.
Methodology
The researchers examined the yeast genome and transcriptome according to various criteria correlated at discrete time intervals of the redox cycle.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the interpretation of results due to the complexity of environmental factors affecting the redox cycle.
Limitations
The study may underestimate the frequency of sequence variation due to challenges in determining variation in un-transcribed regions.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on 63 ecologically and geographically diverse types of laboratory-derived and wild type yeast strains.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<2.2×10−16
Confidence Interval
95% confidence intervals provided for various comparisons.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website