Telomere length variation in model bryophytes: Insights into evolutionary significance and molecular mechanisms
Abstract
Telomeres, the repetitive DNA sequences at the ends of linear chromosomes, play pivotal roles in maintaining genomic stability and integrity. Telomere length maintenance is crucial for cellular functions, including DNA replication, cell division and senescence. While extensively studied in various model organisms, telomere dynamics in bryophytes, comprising mosses, liverworts and hornworts, remain relatively understudied. However, recent advancements in genomic technologies have enabled researchers to unravel telomere length variation in model bryophytes, shedding light on their evolutionary significance and underlying molecular mechanisms. Bryophytes represent an ancient lineage of land plants, offering unique insights into the evolution of telomere biology. Telomeres in bryophytes exhibit conserved features, including the presence of telomeric repeats typically composed of TTAGGG sequences, akin to other eukaryotes. However, variations in telomere length and structure have been observed across different bryophyte species, reflecting diverse evolutionary trajectories and adaptive strategies.