HOMOLOGOUS RECOMBINATION

Homologous recombination
 is the process whereby DNA segments that are similar or identical to each
other break and rejoin to form a new combination.

Functions:
 enhance genetic diversity
 helps to repair DNA
 ensures the proper segregation of chromosomes

CROSSING OVER (EUKARYOTIC)

HOMOLOGOUS
RECOMBINATION IN BACTERIA
1. Bacteria may have more than one copy of a chromosome per cell,
though the copies are usually identical.
2. DNA replication, the replicated regions may also undergo
homologous recombination.
HOLLIDAY MODEL Figure 1 Neuspora experiment (1934, H.Zickler)

CHI FORM 
A SIMPLIFIED VERSION OF THE DOUBLE-STRAND BREAK MODEL
 For simplicity, this illustration does not include the formation of heteroduplexes.
 The dashed arrow indicates that the pathway to the left may be less favored.

DNA MISMATCH REPAIR

Gene conversion by DNA mismatch repair
 A branch migrates past a homologous region that
contains a slightly different DNA sequence.
 This produces two heteroduplexes: DNA double helices with mismatches.
 The mismatches can be repaired in four possible ways by the mismatch repair
system
 Two of these ways result in gene conversion. The repaired base is
shown in red.

GENE
CONVERSION IS DNA GAP REPAIR
SYNTHESIS
REMEMBER

 Homologous recombination involves an exchange of DNA segments that are similar or identical in their DNA sequences.
 It can occur between sister chromatids or between homologous chromosomes
 The Holliday model describes the molecular steps that occur during homologous recombination between homologous
chromosomes
 The initiation of homologous recombination usually occurs with a double-strand break
 Several different proteins are involved in homologous recombination
 Two different mechanisms, DNA mismatch repair and DNA gap repair synthesis, can result in gene conversion during
homologous recombination