When Does Homologous Recombination Occur?

Recombination in meiosis. Recombination occurs when two molecules of DNA exchange pieces of their genetic material with each other. One of the most notable examples of recombination takes place during meiosis (specifically, during prophase I), when homologous chromosomes line up in pairs and swap segments of DNA.

What phase does homologous recombination occur?

Timing within the mitotic cell cycle

Homologous recombination repairs DNA before the cell enters mitosis (M phase). It occurs only during and shortly after DNA replication, during the S and G₂ phases of the cell cycle.

In which phase do crossover and homologous recombination occur?

During prophase I, homologous chromosomes pair with each other and exchange genetic material in a process called chromosomal crossover. The exchange occurs in segments over a small region of homology (similarity in sequence, ie., the same alleles).