Macronuclear Genome Sequence of the Ciliate Tetrahymena thermophila, a Model Eukaryote
2006
Genome Sequence of Tetrahymena thermophila
Sample size: 50
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Jonathan Eisen, Richard Robinson
Hypothesis
What unique features does the genome of Tetrahymena thermophila reveal about eukaryotic evolution?
Conclusion
The genome sequence of Tetrahymena thermophila provides insights into early eukaryotic evolution and the unique characteristics of its macronuclear genome.
Supporting Evidence
- The genome is estimated to be 105 million base pairs in length.
- T. thermophila has over 27,000 protein-coding genes, comparable to humans.
- The macronuclear chromosomes lack centromeres, which is unusual for eukaryotes.
Takeaway
Scientists sequenced the DNA of a tiny creature called Tetrahymena to learn more about how it works and how it differs from humans.
Methodology
The authors isolated DNA from purified macronuclei and performed shotgun sequencing to reconstruct the genome.
Limitations
The exact number of chromosomes in the macronucleus is still uncertain.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website