In: Biology
Homologous recombination is a type of genetic recombination in which nucleotide sequences are exchanged between two similar or identical molecules of DNA. It is used by cells to correctly repair harmful breaks, which take place on both strands of DNA. This recombination produces new combinations of DNA sequences during the process of meiosis. These new combinations of DNA characterize genetic variation in offspring, which allows populations to adapt during the evolution. It is used in horizontal gene transfer to exchange genetic material between different strains and species of bacteria and viruses.
Site-directed recombination is a type of genetic recombination in which DNA strand exchange occurs between segments possessing at least a certain degree of sequence homology. It perform rearrangements of DNA segments by recognizing and binding to short DNA sequences at which they slice the DNA backbone, exchange the two DNA helices involved and rejoin the DNA strands. They are highly specific, fast and efficient. They are utilized in a variety of cellular processes, which include bacterial genome replication, differentiation and pathogenesis and movement of mobile genetic elements.