Long-range chromatin physical interaction detection by Hi-C in Oikopleura dioica

A 3D genome organization used by metazoans is key to the correct progress of a developmental program and adaptation. However, orders of magnitude variations in genome sizes put the existence of common mechanisms of genome organization and gene regulation into question. In an extreme case of rapidly evolving non-parasitic chordate, Oikopleura dioica, secondary genome compaction is conjoined with protein divergence and synteny breakage. The long-range physical interaction detection by Hi-C demonstrate the ability of the chromatin to form TADs and A/B compartmentalization in one of the smallest animal genomes. Hi-C data from tailbud, ovary and testis provide insight into complex genome reorganization in the Oikopleura development and the difference between somatic, endocycling and germline tissue.