Entries by Anastasia Kolesnikova

Review: Shuffling genes for better breeds

During meiosis, the cell division process that generates four distinct gametes, chromosomes exchange genetic material during homologous recombination. Homologous recombination is a complex process that is tightly controlled in location and frequency – each chromosome must have at least one crossover (where the genetic material is exchanged). But why is this process so important and […]

Review: What happens when it gets too hot – the vulnerability of plant reproduction in a warming world

Climate change brings about higher temperatures, threatening plant populations worldwide. Higher temperatures interfere with reproductive processes such as pollen production or fertilization, even if the plant itself can withstand these temperatures. For example, some plants can withstand temperatures up to 60 oC, but the average optimal temperature for pollen and seed development is around 26 […]