The 6th B Chromosome Conference

International meeting on B chromosomes and similar genetic elements.

About the conference

B chromosomes and related non-canonical genomic elements represent a fascinating and still poorly understood component of genome architecture across eukaryotes. Once considered inert or purely parasitic, these elements are now recognized as dynamic players with variable molecular compositions and biological effects. Advances in cytogenetics, genomics, and bioinformatics have profoundly reshaped our understanding of supernumerary chromosomes, germline-restricted chromosomes (GRCs), and other lineage- or tissue-specific genomic elements.

Building on the legacy of five previous international meetings, this sixth B Chromosome Conference continues a well-established tradition of bringing together researchers working on B chromosomes and related genetic systems. The meeting aims to connect scientists studying these elements across a wide range of organisms, including plants, animals, and fungi, and to foster interdisciplinary dialogue among evolutionary biologists, population geneticists, cytogeneticists, developmental biologists, and genomic researchers.

Key topics will include the molecular composition and evolution of B chromosomes and GRCs, mechanisms of their inheritance and drive, their interactions with standard (A) chromosomes, and their impacts on gene regulation, development, and adaptation. By linking diverse biological systems and conceptual frameworks, the sixth B Chromosome Conference seeks to advance a more integrated understanding of genome complexity and dynamics and generalize patterns of behaviour of "accessory" genetic elements.