Estudio de la función de la envoltura nuclear en el proceso meiótico de Arabidopsis thaliana

Abstract

Meiosis increases genetic variability in eukaryotes with sexual reproduction since new allelic combinations appear through this process. It is a special type of cell division based on two rounds of chromosome segregation with no DNA replication between them. By this division, haploid gametes are formed in the germ line, and fertilization of the egg by the sperm restores the chromosome number in the progeny. Meiosis is highly complex, not only because of the molecules that are involved and regulate this division but also due to the intricate mechanism by which homologous chromosomes move in the nucleus searching for and recognizing each other. During prophase I, the nuclear envelope (NE) becomes critical together with the proteins that are localized in this double membrane. Previous research works in model organisms, including Arabidopsis thaliana, have shown that SUN proteins are involved intelomere anchorage to the NE. This connection allows chromosome movements through the surface of the inner nuclear membrane. SUN proteins are part of the linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complexes, which provide a physical bridge between the cytoskeleton and the nucleus, specifically with chromosomes. In this context, we hypothesize that other complexes related to the NE could be involved in this dynamic or even in other meiotic roles. Our main aim is to analyze in detail the meiotic function of complexes like nuclear pore complex (NPC), nuclear lamina, or LINC complexes...