Περίληψη:
Gene conversion is referred to as one of two types of mechanisms known
to act on gene families, mainly to maintain their sequence homogeneity
or, in certain cases, to produce sequence diversity. The concept of gene
conversion was established 20 years ago by researchers working with
fungi. A few years later, gene conversion was also observed in the human
genome, i.e. the gamma-globin locus. The aim of this article is to
emphasize the role of genetic recombination, particularly of gene
conversion, in the evolution of the human beta-like globin genes and
further to summarize its contribution to the convergent evolution of the
fetal globin genes. Finally, this article attempts to re-examine the
origin and spread of specific mutations of the beta-globin cluster, such
as the sickle cell or beta-thalassemia mutations, on the basis of
repeated gene conversion events.
