The evolutionary differentiation of two histone H2A.Z variants in chordates (H2A.Z-1 and H2A.Z-2) is mediated by a stepwise mutation process that affects three amino acid residues
2009

Evolution of Histone Variants H2A.Z-1 and H2A.Z-2 in Chordates

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Eirín-López José M, González-Romero Rodrigo, Dryhurst Deanna, Ishibashi Toyotaka, Ausió Juan

Primary Institution: Universidade da Coruña

Hypothesis

The evolutionary differentiation of two histone H2A.Z variants in chordates is mediated by a stepwise mutation process.

Conclusion

H2A.Z-2 is more evolutionarily constrained than H2A.Z-1, suggesting functional diversification between the two variants.

Supporting Evidence

  • H2A.Z-1 and H2A.Z-2 share a common evolutionary origin early in chordate evolution.
  • The differentiation between H2A.Z-1 and H2A.Z-2 involves refined stepwise mutation changes.
  • H2A.Z-2 is subject to strong purifying selection.

Takeaway

There are two types of histones called H2A.Z-1 and H2A.Z-2 that help organize DNA in cells, and they have evolved differently over time.

Methodology

The study involved extensive DNA and protein database mining, phylogenetic analysis, and examination of amino acid and nucleotide variation.

Limitations

The functional significance of H2A.Z-2 remains unclear and requires further research.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2148-9-31

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication