A TAD SKeptic: Is 3D Genome Topology Conserved?

The notion that topologically associating domains (TADs) are highly conserved across species is prevalent in the field of 3D genomics. However, what exactly is meant by 'highly conserved' and what are the actual comparative data that support this notion? To address these questions, we performed a historical review of the relevant literature and retraced numerous citation chains to reveal the primary data that were used as the basis for the widely accepted conclusion that TADs are highly conserved across evolution. A thorough review of the available evidence suggests the answer may be more complex than what is commonly presented.

Automated summary

The concept of highly conserved topologically associating domains (TADs) across species in the field of 3D genomics is widely accepted, but a thorough review of the available evidence suggests that the answer may be more complex than commonly presented. Historical review of relevant literature and citation chains reveal the complexity and controversy surrounding the notion of TAD conservation across evolution.