Telomere capping in Drosophila: dealing with chromosome ends that most resemble DNA breaks

Chromosoma. 2008 Jun;117(3):235-42. doi: 10.1007/s00412-007-0144-2. Epub 2008 Jan 10.

Abstract

Telomere caps prevent chromosome ends from being recognized as DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). Unlike most organisms studied, the telomere-capping function of Drosophila does not require a specific sequence. Without this sequence component, Drosophila telomeres most resemble DNA breaks and, thus, represent a simpler system for the study of telomere capping. I review recent progress in Drosophila telomere studies, and challenge the notion that Drosophila may not be a relevant model for the study of telomere maintenance.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chromosomes / metabolism*
  • DNA Breaks*
  • Drosophila Proteins / metabolism
  • Drosophila melanogaster / genetics*
  • Evolution, Molecular
  • Telomere / metabolism*

Substances

  • Drosophila Proteins