The mystery of 'selfish' B chromosomes in rye solved

Some chromosomes, such as B chromosomes, can increase their inheritance rate to their own advantage. These extra chromosomes are found in many plants, animals, and fungi and rely upon various strategies to avoid being eliminated over time, as most organisms tend to remove non-essential genetic elements. However, the genetic mechanisms by which B chromosomes avoid elimination are poorly understood. Researchers have identified genes on the rye B chromosome, that are likely responsible for regulating this process.