Rapid evolutionary dynamics of an expanding family of meiotic drive factors and their hpRNA suppressors Journal Article


Authors: Vedanayagam, J.; Lin, C. J.; Lai, E. C.
Article Title: Rapid evolutionary dynamics of an expanding family of meiotic drive factors and their hpRNA suppressors
Abstract: Meiotic drivers are a class of selfish genetic elements whose existence is frequently hidden due to concomitant suppressor systems. Accordingly, we know little of their evolutionary breadth and molecular mechanisms. Here, we trace the evolution of the Dox meiotic drive system in Drosophila simulans, which affects male–female balance (sex ratio). Dox emerged via stepwise mobilization and acquisition of multiple D. melanogaster gene segments including from protamine, which mediates compaction of sperm chromatin. Moreover, we reveal novel Dox homologs and massive amplification of Dox superfamily genes on X chromosomes of its closest sisters D. mauritiana and D. sechellia. Emergence of Dox loci is tightly associated with 359-class satellite repeats that flank de novo genomic copies. In concert, we find coordinated diversification of autosomal hairpin RNA-class siRNA loci that target subsets of Dox superfamily genes. Overall, we reveal fierce genetic arms races between meiotic drive factors and siRNA suppressors associated with recent speciation. © 2021, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Limited.
Journal Title: Nature Ecology and Evolution
Volume: 5
Issue: 12
ISSN: 2397-334X
Publisher: Nature Publishing Group  
Date Published: 2021-12-01
Start Page: 1613
End Page: 1623
Language: English
DOI: 10.1038/s41559-021-01592-z
PROVIDER: scopus
PMCID: PMC8665063
PUBMED: 34862477
DOI/URL:
Notes: Article -- Export Date: 3 January 2022 -- Source: Scopus
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  1. Eric C Lai
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  2. Ching-Jung   Lin
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