rDNA transcription, replication and stability in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The ribosomal DNA locus (rDNA) is central for the functioning of cells because it encodes ribosomal RNAs, key components of ribosomes, and also because of its links to fundamental metabolic processes, with significant impact on genome integrity and aging. The repetitive nature of the rDNA gene units forces the locus to maintain sequence homogeneity through recombination processes that are closely related to genomic stability. The copresence of basic DNA transactions, such as replication, transcription by major RNA polymerases, and recombination, in a defined and restricted area of the genome is of particular relevance as it affects the stability of the rDNA locus by both direct and indirect mechanisms. This condition is well exemplified by the rDNA of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In this review we summarize essential knowledge on how the complexity and overlap of different processes contribute to the control of rDNA and genomic stability in this model organism.