Epigenetic reprogramming in plant sexual reproduction

Nat Rev Genet. 2014 Sep;15(9):613-24. doi: 10.1038/nrg3685. Epub 2014 Jul 22.

Abstract

Epigenetic reprogramming consists of global changes in DNA methylation and histone modifications. In mammals, epigenetic reprogramming is primarily associated with sexual reproduction and occurs during both gametogenesis and early embryonic development. Such reprogramming is crucial not only to maintain genomic integrity through silencing transposable elements but also to reset the silenced status of imprinted genes. In plants, observations of stable transgenerational inheritance of epialleles have argued against reprogramming. However, emerging evidence supports that epigenetic reprogramming indeed occurs during sexual reproduction in plants and that it has a major role in maintaining genome integrity and a potential contribution to epiallelic variation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alleles
  • Arabidopsis / embryology
  • Arabidopsis / genetics
  • Arabidopsis / physiology
  • DNA Methylation
  • DNA, Plant / genetics*
  • Epigenesis, Genetic*
  • Gametogenesis, Plant / genetics
  • Genetic Variation
  • Genome, Plant / genetics*
  • Plants / embryology
  • Plants / genetics*
  • Reproduction / genetics

Substances

  • DNA, Plant