Homologous Recombination in Meiosis

During meiosis, homologous chromosomes undergo a reciprocal exchange of DNA to generate crossovers. Meiotic crossovers create physical connections between homologous chromosomes that are necessary for proper segregation at the first meiotic division, and also generate new combinations of alleles. The process of meiotic recombination is highly conserved between organisms as diverse as yeast and humans. Recombination is highly regulated during meiosis, such that crossovers occur preferentially between homologs as opposed to sister chromatids. Furthermore, crossovers are distributed so that every pair of homologs receives at least one crossover. The molecular mechanisms of meiotic recombination have been elucidated primarily by research using fungi.