Distinct functions of S. pombe Rec12 (Spo11) protein and Rec12-dependent crossover recombination (chiasmata) in meiosis I; and a requirement for Rec12 in meiosis II.

The article offers information on the different roles of S. pombe Rec12 protein and Rec12-dependent crossover recombination in meiosis I and the necessity for Rec12 in meiosis II. Intron mapping, cDNA cloning and DNA sequence analysis have been done in the study. The results suggest that the 345 amino acid, Rec12, is needed for the crossover recombination and for chiasmatic separation of chromosomes in meiosis I. It is also involved in the back-up distributive system of chromosome separation.