Chromosome replication origins: Do we really need them?

摘要: Replication of the main chromosome in halophilic archaeon Haloferax volcanii was recently reported to continue despite deletion all active replication origins. Equally surprising, strain grew faster than parent strain. It proposed that origin-less H. duplicate their chromosomes via recombination-dependent replication. Here, we recall our present knowledge this mode different organisms. We consider likelihood it accounts for viability deleted its specific origins, as well possible alternative interpretations results. The selective advantages having defined origins are discussed from a functional and evolutionary perspective.