Journal of Heredity - recent issues

The Ancestral Carnivore Karyotype (2n = 38) Lives Today in Ringtails

2008-04-11

Chromosome painting was used to investigate the conservation of high-resolution longitudinal 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI)/G bands in Carnivore chromosomes. Cat (Felis catus) and raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) painting probes were hybridized to the ringtail (Bassaricus astutus), dwarf mongoose (Helogale parvula), and Malagasy civet (Fossa fossa) to identify homologous chromosome elements. The patterns of chromosome segment homology among Carnivore species allowed us to reconstruct and propose the disposition of a high-resolution banded ancestral carnivore karyotype (ACK). Three bi-armed chromosomes consistently found among Caniformia species are represented as 6 homologous acrocentric chromosomes among Feliformia species of Carnivora. However, reexamination of the most basal of Feliformia species, the African palm civet Nandinia, revealed the presence of the 3 heretofore Caniformia bi-armed chromosomes. Because these 3 bi-armed chromosomes are found in both Caniformia and Feliformia lineages, they are presumed ancestral for all Carnivora, suggesting that the ACK chromosome number would be 38, rather than the previously supposed 42. Banded chromosomes of the ACK are used to evaluate the consistency between recently determined molecular phylogenetic relationships and postulated cytogenetic dynamics in the same Carnivore species.

Mitochondrial DNA Sequence Phylogeny of 4 Populations of the Widely Distributed Cynomolgus Macaque (Macaca fascicularis fascicularis)

Blancher, A., Bonhomme, M., Crouau-Roy, B., Terao, K., Kitano, T., Saitou, N. — 2008-04-11

We studied the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) polymorphism of 304 Macaca fascicularis fascicularis (M. f. fascicularis) individuals, representative of 4 cynomolgus macaque populations (Indochina, Indonesia, Philippines, and Mauritius). By sequencing a 590-bp fragment in the hypervariable II region of the D-loop region, we defined 70 haplotypes. The homologous region was also characterized in 22 Chinese Macaca mulatta and 2 Macaca sylvanus. The phylogenetic analysis confirms the monophyly of M. f. fascicularis and defines 2 haplotype groups inside the M. f. fascicularis clade: one "insular," encompassing 6 Philippines, 2 Mauritius, and 31 Indonesian haplotypes, the other "continental" that contains all Indochinese and 6 Indonesian haplotypes. Continental and insular group divergence time was estimated to be approximately 10⁶ years before present (BP). Among Indonesian haplotypes, some have a continental origin. This suggests either direct migration from mainland to Indonesia or that remnant lineages from an ancient population genetically close to the mainland (i.e., in the Sunda Shelf, <550 000 years BP) were subsequently brought southward to Indonesia. The low nucleotide diversity in the Philippines population suggests a bottleneck following colonization by Indonesian individuals, around 110 000 years BP. mtDNA and further observations of nuclear genetic data corroborate the mixed origin (Indonesian/continental) hypothesis of Mauritius individuals and a population bottleneck.

Deciphering Ecological Barriers to North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis) Gene Flow in the Louisiana Landscape

Latch, E. K., Scognamillo, D. G., Fike, J. A., Chamberlain, M. J., Rhodes, O. E. — 2008-04-11

For North American river otters (Lontra canadensis) in Louisiana, statewide distribution, availability of aquatic habitats, and the absence of physical barriers to dispersal might suggest that they exist as a large, panmictic population. However, the wide variety of habitat types in this region, and the dynamic nature of these habitats over time, could potentially structure river otter populations in accordance with cryptic landscape features. Recently developed landscape genetic models offer a spatially explicit approach that could be useful in identifying potential barriers to the movement of river otters through the dynamic aquatic landscape of Louisiana. We used georeferenced multilocus microsatellite genotypes in spatially implicit (STRUCTURE) and spatially explicit (GENELAND) models to characterize patterns of landscape genetic structure. All models identified 3 subpopulations of river otters in Louisiana, corresponding to Inland, Atchafalaya River, and Mississippi River regions. Variation in breeding seasonality, brought about by variation in prey abundance between inland and coastal populations, may have contributed to genetic differentiation among populations. It is also possible that the genetic discontinuities we observed indicate a correlation between otter distribution and access to freshwater. Regardless of the mechanism, it is likely that any genetic differentiation among subpopulations is exacerbated by relatively poor dispersal.

Fitness of Transgenic Anopheles stephensi Mosquitoes Expressing the SM1 Peptide under the Control of a Vitellogenin Promoter

Li, C., Marrelli, M. T., Yan, G., Jacobs-Lorena, M. — 2008-04-11

Three transgenic Anopheles stephensi lines were established that strongly inhibit transmission of the mouse malaria parasite Plasmodium berghei. Fitness of the transgenic mosquitoes was assessed based on life table analysis and competition experiments between transgenic and wild-type mosquitoes. Life table analysis indicated low fitness load for the 2 single-insertion transgenic mosquito lines VD35 and VD26 and no load for the double-insertion transgenic mosquito line VD9. However, in cage experiments, where each of the 3 homozygous transgenic mosquitoes was mixed with nontransgenic mosquitoes, transgene frequency of all 3 lines decreased with time. Further experiments suggested that reduction of transgene frequency is a consequence of reduced mating success, reduced reproductive capacity, and/or insertional mutagenesis, rather than expression of the transgene itself. Thus, for transgenic mosquitoes released in the field to be effective in reducing malaria transmission, a driving mechanism will be required.

Mapping Homologous Sequences for Determinacy and Photoperiod Sensitivity in Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)

Kwak, M., Velasco, D., Gepts, P. — 2008-04-11

Determinacy and photoperiod insensitivity are agronomically important traits, selected during or after domestication in common bean. Determinacy reduces aboveground plant biomass and accelerates and synchronizes flowering. Photoperiod insensitivity allows common bean to be grown at higher latitudes under long days. In this study, we attempted to identify Phaseolus vulgaris homologues of 12 Arabidopsis genes that are involved in meristem identity determination and the photoperiod-dependent and autonomous flowering pathways. Amplification products with homology to the original Arabidopsis gene were obtained for 8 genes, 7 of which could be mapped onto the common bean-linkage map using the BAT93 x Jalo EEP 558 and Midas x G12873 recombinant inbred populations. Three Terminal Flower 1 homologues (PvTFL1x, PvTFL1y, and PvTFL1z) were mapped to B4, B1, and B7, respectively. PvTFL1y cosegregated with the determinacy locus, fin. In addition, PvTFL1z mapped near or at a second determinacy locus on B7. A Zeitlupe homologue mapped near a quantitative trait locus (QTL) for flowering time on linkage group B9. Constans, FCA, Flowering locus D, Gigantea, and Leafy homologues did not cosegregate with currently mapped flowering time QTLs and photoperiod insensitivity loci in common bean. Further studies are needed to confirm the role of these homologues as potential candidate genes.

Molecular Aspects of Anthocyanin fruit Tomato in Relation to high pigment-1

2008-04-11

The tomato Anthocyanin fruit (Aft) genotype is characterized by purple color in skin and outer pericarp of its fruits due to higher levels of anthocyanins—flavonoid metabolites. Our objectives were to carry out metabolic and molecular characterization of this genotype, emphasizing its interaction with the high pigment-1 (hp-1) mutation, known to increase flavonoids in tomato fruits. These objectives fit the growing interest in developing tomato fruits with higher levels of functional metabolites. Our results show that 1) Aft fruits are also characterized by significantly higher levels of the flavonols quercetin and kaempferol, thus enhancing their functional value; 2) the tomato Anthocyanin1 (Ant1) gene, encoding a Myb transcription factor, displayed nucleotide and amino acid polymorphisms between the Aft genotype and cultivated genotypes; 3) a DNA marker based on Ant1 showed that the Aft trait is encoded by a single locus on chromosome 10 fully associated with Ant1; and 4) double homozygotes Aft/Aft hp-1/hp-1 plants displayed a more-than-additive effect on the production of fruit anthocyanidins and flavonols. This effect was manifested by approximately 5-, 19-, and 33-fold increase of petunidin, malvidin, and delphinidin, respectively, in the double mutants compared with the cumulative levels of their parental lines.

ISSR and Isozyme Characterization of Androgenetic Dihaploids Reveals Tetrasomic Inheritance in Tetraploid Somatic Hybrids between Solanum melongena and Solanum aethiopicum Group Gilo

2008-04-11

Gene exchanges between Solanum melongena and its allied relative Solanum aethiopicum are a crucial prerequisite for introgression of useful traits from the allied species into the cultivated eggplant. In order to evaluate the extent of genetic recombination between the 2 species, biochemical and molecular markers were employed. A dihaploid population obtained through anther culture of the corresponding tetraploid somatic hybrids was genetically analyzed. The extent of disomic/tetrasomic inheritance and segregation ratios of 3 isozyme systems and intersimple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers were evaluated. The dihaploids, being derived from microspores, allowed for simple, complete, and accurate analyses. The segregation of 280 ISSR markers (110 aethiopicum-specific, 104 melongena-specific, and 66 monomorphic) were evaluated in 71 dihaploids. According to the genetic constitution (simplex/duplex/triplex), almost 64% of the fragments revealed the tetrasomic and/or disomic inheritance. With regard to the assigned species-specific fragments, 68% and 4% were unambiguously the result of tetrasomic and disomic inheritance, respectively. Twenty-four of the 66 monomorphic ISSRs were inherited according to random chromatid segregation. The phenotypes of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PDH), 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6-PGDH), and shikimate dehydrogenase (SKDH) were studied in 70 dihaploids and inferences were made about the allelic state of their 5 loci. The isozyme markers segregated in the dihaploids in a distorted manner, their segregations did not fit in with any of the expected segregation ratios. However, tetrasomic inheritance might be suggested for G-6-PDH 2 and SKDH 1 loci. Our results demonstrated that gene exchanges occurred readily in the somatic hybrids between S. melongena and S. aethiopicum gr. Gilo.

Recombination in Interpopulation Hybrids of the Copepod Tigriopus californicus: Release of Beneficial Variation Despite Hybrid Breakdown

Edmands, S. — 2008-04-11

Crosses between divergent populations of the copepod Tigriopus californicus typically result in fitness reductions for both F₂ and backcross hybrids. Because females in this species lack chiasmatic meiosis, both recombinant and nonrecombinant backcross hybrids can be created. Recombinant hybrids were found to have significantly faster development time for both males and females in 2 pairs of crosses, indicating the creation of favorable gene combinations by disrupting parental linkage groups.

Genetic Mapping of Resistance to Purple Seed Stain in PI 80837 Soybean

Jackson, E. W., Feng, C., Fenn, P., Chen, P. — 2008-04-11

Purple seed stain (PSS) of soybean caused by Cercospora kikuchii is an important disease that reduces market grade and can affect seed germination and vigor. A single dominant gene was shown to confer PSS resistance in PI 80837. The objective of this research was to map the PSS resistance gene in PI 80837 using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. A cross was made between the PSS-susceptible cultivar Agripro 350 (AP 350) and PI 80837. The F₂ population and parents were grown in the field, and the resistance or susceptibility of individual plants was determined by assaying the seed for infection by C. kikuchii. DNA of parent and F₂ plants was extracted for SSR analysis and mapping. Segregation ratios for seed infection and for SSR markers showed that a single dominant gene conditions resistance to PSS in PI 80837. The candidate resistance gene was mapped between Sat_308 (6.6 cM) and Satt594 (11.6 cM) on molecular linkage group G. These markers may be useful in marker-assisted selection for utilizing PSS resistance from PI 80837 in a breeding program.

Parentage Analysis with Few Contributing Breeders: Validation and Improvement

Duchesne, P., Meldgaard, T., Berrebi, P. — 2008-04-11

Validation of parental allocation using PAPA software (Duchesne P, Godbout MH, Bernatchez L. 2002. PAPA (package for the analysis of parental allocation): a computer program for simulated and real parental allocation. Mol Ecol Notes. 2:191–193.) was investigated under the assumption that only a small proportion of potential breeders contributed to the offspring sample. Inbreeding levels proved to have a large impact on allocation error rate. Consequently, simulations from artificial, unrelated parents may strongly underestimate allocation error, and so, whenever possible, simulations based on the actual parental genotypes should be run. An unexpected and interesting finding was that ambiguity (the highest likelihood is shared by several parental pairs) rates below 10% stood very close to exact allocation error rates (true proportions of wrong allocations). Hence, the ambiguity rate statistic may be viewed as a ready-made indicator of the resolution power of a specific parental allocation run and, if not exceeding 10%, used as an estimate of allocation error rate. It was found that the PAPA simulator, even with few contributing breeders, can be trusted to output reasonably accurate estimates of allocation error as long as those estimates do not exceed 15%. Indeed, most discrepancies between exact and estimated error then stood below 3%. Reproductive success variance had little impact on error estimate discrepancies within the same range. Finally, a (focal set) method was described to correct the estimated family sizes computed directly from parental allocations. Essentially, this method makes use of the detailed structure of the allocation probabilities associated with each parental pair with at least 1 allocated offspring. The allocation probabilities are expressed in matrix form, and the subsequent calculations are run based on standard matrix algebra. On average, this method provided better estimates of family sizes for each investigated combination of parameter values. As the size of offspring samples increased, the corrections improved until a plateau was finally reached. Typically, samples comprising 250, 500, and 1000 offspring would bring corrections in the order of 10–20%, 20–30%, and 30–40%, respectively.

Announcements

2008-04-11

Maize Centromere Mapping: A Comparison of Physical and Genetic Strategies

2008-03-14

Centromere positions on 7 maize chromosomes were compared on the basis of data from 4 to 6 mapping techniques per chromosome. Centromere positions were first located relative to molecular markers by means of radiation hybrid lines and centric fission lines recovered from oat–maize chromosome addition lines. These centromere positions were then compared with new data from centric fission lines recovered from maize plants, half-tetrad mapping, and fluorescence in situ hybridizations and to data from earlier studies. Surprisingly, the choice of mapping technique was not the critical determining factor. Instead, on 4 chromosomes, results from all techniques were consistent with a single centromere position. On chromosomes 1, 3, and 6, centromere positions were not consistent even in studies using the same technique. The conflicting centromere map positions on chromosomes 1, 3, and 6 could be explained by pericentric inversions or alternative centromere positions on these chromosomes.

Estimation of Quantitative Genetic Parameters Using Marker-Inferred Relatedness in Japanese Flounder: A Case Study of Upward Bias

Shikano, T. — 2008-03-14

Marker-based methods for estimating heritability have been proposed as an effective means to study quantitative traits in long-lived organisms and natural populations. However, practical examinations to evaluate the usefulness and robustness of a regression method are limited. Using several quantitative traits of Japanese flounder Paralichthys olivaceus, the present study examined the influence of relatedness estimator and population structure on the estimation of heritability and genetic correlation under a regression method with 7 microsatellite loci. Significant heritability and genetic correlation were detected for several quantitative traits in 2 laboratory populations but not in a natural population. In the laboratory populations, upward bias in heritability appeared depending on the relatedness estimators and the populations. Upward bias in heritability increased with decreasing the actual variance of relatedness, suggesting that the estimates of heritability under the regression method tend to be overestimated due to the underestimation of the actual variance of relatedness. Therefore, relationship structure and precise estimation of relatedness are critical for applying this method.

Effects of Anthocyanin and Carotenoid Combinations on Foliage and Immature Fruit Color of Capsicum annuum L.

2008-03-14

Shades ranging from violet to black pigmentation in pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) are attributed to anthocyanin accumulation. High-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry analysis of violet and black fruit tissue identified a single anthocyanin that was determined to be delphinidin-3-p-coumaroyl-rutinoside-5-glucoside. Leaf tissue of a black-pigmented foliage genotype contained the same anthocyanin found in fruit but at a considerably higher concentration in comparison to violet and black fruit tissue. Fruit chlorophyll concentration was approximately 14-fold higher in black fruit in comparison to violet fruit that contained relatively little chlorophyll. β-carotene, lutein, violaxanthin, and neoxanthin carotenoid concentrations in black fruit were also significantly greater in comparison to violet fruit. High concentrations of delphinidin in combination with chlorophyll and accessory carotenoid pigments produced the characteristic black pigmentation observed in fruits and leaves of selected genotypes. Anthocyanins were accumulated in the outer mesocarp of violet and black fruit and in the palisade and mesophyll cells of black leaves. Consistent with chlorophyll content of respective genotypes, chloroplast density was greater in cells of black fruits. Utilizing Capsicum pigment variants, we determine the biochemical factors responsible for violet versus black-pigmented pepper tissue in the context of described pepper color genes.

Utility of EST-Derived SSRs as Population Genetics Markers in a Beetle

Kim, K. S., Ratcliffe, S. T., French, B. W., Liu, L., Sappington, T. W. — 2008-03-14

Microsatellite, or simple sequence repeat (SSR), loci can be identified by mining expressed sequence tag (EST) databases, and where these are available, marker development time and expense can be decreased considerably over conventional strategies of probing the entire genome. However, it is unclear whether they provide information on population structure similar to that generated by anonymous genomic SSRs. We performed comparative population genetic analyses between EST-derived SSRs (EST-SSRs) and anonymous SSRs developed from genomic DNA for the same set of populations of the insect Diabrotica virgifera, a beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. Compared with noncoding, nontranscribed regions, EST-SSRs were generally less polymorphic but had reduced occurrence of null alleles and greater cross-species amplification. Neutrality tests suggested the loci were not under positive selection. Across all populations and all loci, the genomic and EST-SSRs performed similarly in estimating genetic diversity, F_IS, F_ST, population assignment and exclusion tests, and detection of distinct populations. These findings, therefore, indicate that the EST-SSRs examined can be used with confidence in future genetic studies of Diabrotica populations and suggest that EST libraries can be added as a valuable source of markers for population genetics studies in insects and other animals.

Associations between Candidate Gene Markers at a Quantitative Trait Locus on Equine Chromosome 4 Responsible for Osteochondrosis Dissecans in Fetlock Joints of South German Coldblood Horses

Wittwer, C., Dierks, C., Hamann, H., Distl, O. — 2008-03-14

A previously accomplished whole-genome scan for osteochondrosis (OC) and OC dissecans (OCD) in South German Coldblood horses using 250 microsatellite markers identified putative quantitative trait loci (QTL). A chromosome-wide significant QTL for fetlock OCD was found on Equus caballus chromosome (ECA) 4q at a relative position of 70.0–73.3 cM. The aim of this study was to analyze associations of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in candidate genes for OC in this region. The association analysis included 32 affected and 64 unaffected horses. Three SNPs located in intron 8, intron 9, and 3'-untranslated region (UTR) of the acyloxyacyl hydrolase (AOAH) gene on ECA4q were significantly associated with OCD in fetlock joints. In order to control for systematic environmental and quantitative genetic effects, we employed a linear animal model. The association of the SNP (AJ543065:g.703A>G) in the 3'-UTR of exon 21 was confirmed in the animal model analysis and a significant additive genetic effect for fetlock OCD of 0.42 (P = 0.002) and a dominance effect of –0.32 (P = 0.03) was estimated. This is the first report on a marker in population-wide linkage disequilibrium with equine OCD in fetlock joints.

Genetic Analysis of White Facial and Leg Markings in the Swiss Franches-Montagnes Horse Breed

Rieder, S., Hagger, C., Obexer-Ruff, G., Leeb, T., Poncet, P.-A. — 2008-03-14

White markings and spotting patterns in animal species are thought to be a result of the domestication process. They often serve for the identification of individuals but sometimes are accompanied by complex pathological syndromes. In the Swiss Franches-Montagnes horse population, white markings increased vastly in size and occurrence during the past 30 years, although the breeding goal demands a horse with as little depigmented areas as possible. In order to improve selection and avoid more excessive depigmentation on the population level, we estimated population parameters and breeding values for white head and anterior and posterior leg markings. Heritabilities and genetic correlations for the traits were high (h² > 0.5). A strong positive correlation was found between the chestnut allele at the melanocortin-1-receptor gene locus and the extent of white markings. Segregation analysis revealed that our data fit best to a model including a polygenic effect and a biallelic locus with a dominant-recessive mode of inheritance. The recessive allele was found to be the white trait-increasing allele. Multilocus linkage disequilibrium analysis allowed the mapping of the putative major locus to a chromosomal region on ECA3q harboring the KIT gene.

Evaluating Connectivity in the Brooding Brittle Star Astrotoma agassizii across the Drake Passage in the Southern Ocean

Hunter, R. L., Halanych, K. M. — 2008-03-14

Studies examining population structure and genetic diversity of benthic marine invertebrates in the Southern Ocean have emerged in recent years. However, many taxonomic groups remain largely unstudied, echinoderms being one conspicuous example. The brittle star Astrotoma agassizii is distributed widely throughout Antarctica and southern South America. This species is a brooding echinoderm and therefore may have limited dispersal capacity. In order to determine the effect of hypothesized isolating barriers in the Southern Ocean, such as depth, geographic distance, and the polar front, 2 mitochondrial DNA markers were used to compare populations from the South American and Antarctic continental shelves. Astrotoma agassizii was shown to be genetically discontinuous across the polar front. In fact, populations previously assumed to be panmictic instead represent 3 separate lineages that lack morphological distinction. However, within lineages, genetic continuity was displayed across a large geographic range (>500 km). Therefore, despite lacking a pelagic larval stage, A. agassizii can disperse across substantial geographic distance within continental shelf regions. These results indicate that geographic distance alone may not be a barrier to dispersal, but rather the combined effects of distance, depth, and the polar front act to prevent gene flow between A. agassizii populations in the Southern Ocean.

Hybridization Dynamics between Colorado's Native Cutthroat Trout and Introduced Rainbow Trout

Metcalf, J. L., Siegle, M. R., Martin, A. P. — 2008-03-14

Newly formed hybrid populations provide an opportunity to examine the initial consequences of secondary contact between species and identify genetic patterns that may be important early in the evolution of hybrid inviability. Widespread introductions of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) into watersheds with native cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii) have resulted in hybridization. These introductions have contributed to the decline of native cutthroat trout populations. Here, we examine the pattern of hybridization between introduced rainbow trout and 2 populations of cutthroat trout native to Colorado. For this study, we utilized 7 diagnostic, codominant nuclear markers and a diagnostic mitochondrial marker to investigate hybridization in a population of greenback cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii stomias) and a population of Colorado River cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii pleuriticus). We infer that cutthroat–rainbow trout hybrid swarms have formed in both populations. Although a mixture of hybrid genotypes was present, not all genotype combinations were detected at expected frequencies. We found evidence that mitochondrial DNA introgression in hybrids is asymmetric and more likely from rainbow trout than from cutthroat trout. A difference in spawning time of the 2 species or differences in the fitness between the reciprocal crosses may explain the asymmetry. Additionally, the presence of intraspecific cytonuclear associations found in both populations is concordant with current hypotheses regarding coevolution of mitochondrial and nuclear genomes.

Phylogeography of an Island Endemic, the Puerto Rican Freshwater Crab (Epilobocera sinuatifrons)

Cook, B. D., Pringle, C. M., Hughes, J. M. — 2008-03-14

The endemic Puerto Rican crab, Epilobocera sinuatifrons (Pseudothelphusidae), has a freshwater-dependant life-history strategy, although the species has some capabilities for terrestrial movement as adults. In contrast to all other freshwater decapods on the island (e.g., caridean shrimp), E. sinuatifrons does not undertake amphidromous migration, and is restricted to purely freshwater habitats and adjacent riparian zones. As Puerto Rico has a dynamic geologic history, we predicted that both the life history of E. sinuatifrons and the geological history of the island would be important determinants of phylogeographic structuring in the species. Using a fragment of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 mtDNA (mitochondrial DNA) gene, we tested for deviations from panmixia among and within rivers draining Puerto Rico and used statistical phylogeography to explore processes that may explain extant patterns of genetic variation in the species. While populations of E. sinuatifrons were significantly differentiated among rivers, they were likely to be recently derived because nested clade analysis (NCA) indicated evolutionarily recent restricted gene flow with isolation by distance (IBD) and contiguous range expansion at various spatial scales. Ongoing drainage rearrangements associated with faulting and land slippage were invoked as processes involved in sporadic gene flow among rivers throughout the Pleistocene. Patterns of genetic differentiation conformed to IBD and population demographic statistics were nonsignificant, indicating that although recently derived, populations from different rivers were in drift-mutation equilibrium. A shallow (0.6 million years ago), paraphyletic split was observed in the haplotype network, which NCA indicated arose via allopatric fragmentation. This split coincides with an area of high relief in central Puerto Rico that may have experienced relatively little drainage rearrangements. Shallow but significant genetic isolation of populations of E. sinuatifrons among Puerto Rican rivers suggests phylogeographic patterns that are intermediate to terrestrial habitat specialists (highly divergent populations) and other freshwater biota, such as amphidromous species and insects with aerial adult dispersal (highly connected populations).

Recent Range Expansion and Divergence among North American Prairie Grouse

Johnson, J. A. — 2008-03-14

Prairie grouse (genus: Tympanuchus) once existed throughout much of North America but have recently experienced significant population declines, isolation, and extinction. In previous molecular studies, contrasting patterns or an unresolved polytomy among Tympanuchus taxa (Tympanuchus phasianellus, Tympanuchus pallidicinctus, and Tympanuchus cupido) have resulted from traditional phylogenetic methods. As an alternative approach, the timing of expansion and the demographic processes that may have lead to this association among haplotypes, namely incomplete lineage sorting or migration, were explicitly investigated by comparing pairwise mitochondrial DNA control region nucleotide differences and through the use of a isolation with migration coalescent model. The timing of geographic expansion and population divergence time estimates generated under these models support previous inferences that Tympanuchus experienced a rapid expansion and diversification in the late Pleistocene 10,000–80,000 years before present. Further, morphological and behavioral differences originally used to describe Tympanuchus species were substantiated with little or no migration identified since population divergence. However, estimates of population divergence and migration between a number of morphologically similar subspecific taxa, including the greater prairie chicken (Tympanuchus Cupido pinnatus), the endangered Attwater's prairie chicken (Tympanuchus Cupido attwateri), and the extinct heath hen (Tympanuchus Cupido cupido), suggest these taxa are as differentiated with each other as they are from other Tympanuchus species. This information will prove useful in conservation efforts by providing estimates of demographic history that have helped shape the evolutionary relationships among Tympanuchus grouse.

Biogenic Trace Amine-Associated Receptors (TAARs) Are Encoded in Avian Genomes: Evidence and Possible Implications

Mueller, J. C., Steiger, S., Fidler, A. E., Kempenaers, B. — 2008-03-14

Recent studies of mammals and fish indicate that most trace amine–associated receptors (TAARs) may be involved in the detection of volatile biogenic compounds. It has therefore been suggested that this new class of "olfactory" receptors could be highly relevant for social communication and individual recognition. To determine if TAAR orthologues are encoded in avian genomes, we initiated BLAST searches of the Gallus gallus genome and public avian expressed sequence tags databases and performed associated phylogenetic analyses of the TAAR homologues identified. Our results suggest that a minimum of 3 TAAR paralogues are encoded in the G. gallus genome and that these are putative orthologues of the human/mouse genes TAAR1, TAAR2, and TAAR5. It is noteworthy that TAAR5 is activated by compounds that have been found in avian feces. We tentatively suggest that avian TAARs may compensate for the lack of an avian equivalent of the mammalian vomeronasal system and therefore may be important mediators of socially important avian chemical cues.

A Chromosome-Specific Estimate of Transmission of Heterozygosity by 2n Gametes in Potato

Peloquin, S. J., Boiteux, L. S., Simon, P. W., Jansky, S. H. — 2008-03-14

Polyploid plants are formed when numerically unreduced (2n) gametes participate in fertilization. Based on cytological and genetic analyses, modes of 2n gamete formation have been determined for a number of plant species. Gametes formed by a first-division restitution (FDR) mechanism contain nonsister chromatids near the centromere, whereas those formed by second-division restitution (SDR) contain sister chromatids. These mechanisms differ in the proportion of heterozygous loci they transmit intact to offspring. This paper estimates the transmission of heterozygosity on an individual chromosome basis through pachytene analysis of chromosomes of haploids (2n = 2x = 24) of Solanum tuberosum Andigena Group (2n = 4x = 48), a South American cultivated potato. Transmission of heterozygosity by FDR and SDR 2n gametes was calculated for 6 different cytogenetic assumptions. FDR was more than twice as effective as SDR in transmission of heterozygosity under all 6 scenarios. Rates of transmission of heterozygosity were similar in each situation. Transmission of heterozygosity by FDR was also compared with transmission of heterozygosity by tetrasomic inheritance and found to be approximately 50% more effective.

Correspondence of Trichome Mutations in Diploid and Tetraploid Cottons

Desai, A., Chee, P. W., May, O. L., Paterson, A. H. — 2008-03-14

Quantitative variation for leaf trichome number is observed within and among Gossypium species, varying from glabrous to densely pubescent phenotypes. Moreover, economically important cotton lint fibers are modified trichomes. Earlier studies have mapped quantitative trait loci (QTLs) affecting leaf pubescence in Gossypium using allotetraploids. In this study, we mapped genes responsible for leaf trichome density in a diploid A genome cross. We were able to map 3 QTLs affecting leaf pubescence based on trichome counts obtained from young leaves (YL) and mature leaves (ML). When the F₂ progeny were classified as pubescent versus glabrous, their ratio did not deviate significantly from a 3:1 model, suggesting that glabrousness is inherited in a simple Mendelian fashion. The glabrous mutation mapped to linkage group A3 at the position of major QTL YL1 and ML1 and appeared orthologous to the t1 locus of the allotetraploids. Interestingly, a fiber mutation, sma-4(ha), observed in the same F₂ population cosegregated with the glabrous marker, which indicates either close linkage or common genetic control of lint fiber and leaf trichomes. Studies of A genome diploids may help to clarify the genetic control of trichomes and fiber in both diploid and tetraploid cottons.

Sex Identification of Owls (Family Strigidae) Using Oligonucleotide Microarrays

2008-03-14

Molecular sexing of the diversified avian family Strigidae is difficult. Sex identification using the intron length difference between W and Z chromosomal CHD1 genes, as visualized by agarose gel electrophoreses, often produces ambiguous results. Here we describe a simple method for sexing a variety of Strigidae species using oligonucleotide microarrays, on which several sex-specific probes operated complementarily or in concert. The sex of 8 owl species was identified clearly on the microarrays through sequence recognition. This sequence-directed method can be easily applied to a wider range of Strigidae species.

AFLP Mapping of Soybean Maturity Gene E4

Matsumura, H., Liu, B., Abe, J., Takahashi, R. — 2008-03-14

Days to flowering and maturity are controlled by genes E1–E7 and J in soybean. Previous studies revealed that E1–E5 and E7 influence tolerances to low-temperature–induced seed coat browning in different directions at various intensities. The E4 locus is useful for the development of early maturing cultivars with chilling tolerance because the recessive allele conditions both the early-maturing habit and chilling tolerance. This study was conducted to obtain a fine map of E4 by amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analysis using a F_8:9 family segregating for E4 that was developed from a cross between photoperiod-insensitive Japanese landraces, Sakamotowase (E4) and Miharudaizu (e4). AFLP analysis using a total of 4096 primer pairs detected 20 polymorphic markers between near-isogenic lines for E4. Linkage mapping incorporated 16 AFLP markers into a previously constructed genetic map around E4 in linkage group I. Eight AFLP markers were localized to unfilled areas between E4 and the closest markers identified previously. Two AFLP markers flanking E4, e48m41-8 and e18m38-8, were mapped at positions 0.6 and 5.4 cM apart from E4, respectively. They were dominant and in cis arrangement with the recessive allele (e4) conditioning the photoperiod insensitivity and chilling tolerance. These markers can be used in developing more precise markers for fine mapping and marker-assisted selection and in isolating the underlying gene via genome walking approaches.

Diversity of mtDNA in Southern River Otter (Lontra provocax) from Argentinean Patagonia

2008-03-14

Lontra provocax is an endemic species from Patagonia that has been categorized as "endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In this study, noninvasive molecular methods were used to investigate the genetic diversity and haplotype distribution of L. provocax in Argentinean Patagonia. We analyzed 150 scat samples collected from 1995 to 2006 and obtained 13 sequences of control region with 1 haplotype and 34 sequences of cytochrome b with 4 haplotypes. The population of the south of Patagonia (Tierra del Fuego and De los Estados Island) showed a relatively high haplotype diversity (h = 0.71) and was statistically different to the population of the north (analysis of molecular variance, F_ST = 0.15, P = 0.018). We concluded that there are 2 different subpopulations of L. provocax that deserve conservation attention and that the southern population appears not to have suffered a human-induced population bottleneck of the sort typically experienced by various otter species around the world.

Estimation of the Time of Divergence between Japanese Mishima Island Cattle and Other Cattle Populations Using Microsatellite DNA Markers

2008-03-14

We applied the theory of random genetic drift to determine the divergence history of a closed cattle population over the relatively short timescale of several hundred years. The divergence history of the closed population of Mishima Island cattle, a national natural treasure of Japan, was examined, and the results were compared with historical documents. Inbreeding depression in the isolated population was investigated for body size and fertility. Twenty-one DNA microsatellite markers in Mishima Island cattle and 3 major breeds from the mainland were genotyped. For the mainland breeds, all 21 or 20 markers were segregating. However, nearly half the number of loci (9 of 21) was fixed in the Island cattle. The average number of alleles per locus of Island cattle was markedly lower than that in the mainland breeds. These results support the theory that Island cattle have been isolated for a considerable period of time. The number of generations of isolation was estimated as 14.1–22.6, and the year of divergence was calculated as 1778–1846. In view of these findings, we propose that Island cattle diverged from the mainland population at around 1800 and were isolated for about 200 years. These estimates are in agreement with historical documents showing that divergence occurred between 1672 and 1880. The total inbreeding coefficient of the present population was predicted to be in the range of 0.51–0.60. However, historical reports dated over 100 years do not support changes in fertility, so that there is no evidence for inbreeding depression.

Exploiting EST Databases for the Development and Characterization of EST-SSRs in the Pacific Oyster (Crassostrea gigas)

Yu, H., Li, Q. — 2008-03-14

A total of 147 microsatellite-containing expressed sequence tags (ESTs) (3.63%) were detected from 4053 ESTs of the Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) in GenBank. The average density of simple sequence repeats (SSRs) was 1 per 8.25 kb of EST after redundancy elimination. Dinucleotide repeat motifs appeared to be the most abundant type. Sixteen new polymorphic EST–SSRs were developed. The number of alleles per locus varied from 3 to 12, with an average of 5.9 alleles per locus. Marker transferability was tested on 2 other Crassostrea species, and 14 loci gave successful amplifications in both species. Twenty EST–SSRs were tested on 3 families of C. gigas for examination of inheritance mode of EST–SSRs. Thirty-five tests of segregation ratios revealed 5 significant departures from expected Mendelian ratios, 4 of which confirmed Mendelian expectations when accounting for the presence of null alleles. Null alleles were detected at 3 loci (15.0%) of the 20 loci, and the frequency of null alleles at EST–SSRs was lower than that in genomic SSRs in C. gigas. The results obtained in this study suggest that C. gigas EST–SSRs will complement the currently available genomic SSR markers and may be useful for comparative mapping, marker-assisted selection, and evolutionary studies.

Genetic Diversity and Origin of Leatherback Turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) from the Brazilian Coast

2008-03-14

The leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) population that nests in Brazil is restricted to a few individuals, but high densities of pelagic individuals are observed along the southern and southeastern Brazilian coast. We investigated the diversity of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region in order to understand the relationship between nesting and pelagic leatherbacks from Brazil and elsewhere. High-quality 711-bp sequences were generated, analyzed, and compared with published data from worldwide populations. We detected the presence of shared haplotypes between nesting and pelagic aggregates from Brazil, as well as haplotypes shared with other nesting areas from the Atlantic and Pacific. Furthermore, the use of longer control region sequences allowed the subdivision of the common Atlantic haplotype A into 3 different haplotypes (A1, A3, and A4), thus improving the resolution of mtDNA-based leatherback phylogeography. The use of longer sequences partially supported a closer association between nesting and pelagic individuals from Brazil and pointed to a complex origin for the pelagic individuals in the Brazilian coast.

Inheritance of a One-Seeded Pod Trait in Peanut

Branch, W. D. — 2008-03-14

Normally, the cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) has predominantly 2 seeds per pod or more. Two seeds per pod are predominantly found in A. hypogaea L. subsp. hypogaea var. hypogaea (the botanical classification of the US runner and virginia market types) and in subsp. fastigiata var. vulgaris (the US spanish market type); whereas, predominantly 3 or more seeds per pod are found in subsp. fastigiata vars. fastigiata (the US valencia market type), peruviana (not marketed in the United States), and aequatoriana (not marketed in the United States), and in subsp. hypogaea var. hirsuta (not marketed in the United States). However, recently, predominantly 1 seed per pod selections were found within a Georgia cross population. Crosses involving the 1-seeded pod selection were made to determine its inheritance. The F₁, F₂, and F₃ data indicated that any 2 of 3 duplicate recessive genes designated, osp₁, osp₂, and osp₃, control the 1-seeded pod trait in peanut.

A Tetraploid Amazon Molly, Poecilia formosa

Lampert, K. P., Lamatsch, D. K., Fischer, P., Schartl, M. — 2008-03-14

Polyploidization is thought to be an important driving force in evolution as it increases the genetic material on which mutation and selection can act. In the Amazon molly, Poecilia formosa, triploid genotypes can be found in the field and frequently arise from diploid breeding stocks, a tetraploid individual, however, was so far never documented. Here, we report the first tetraploid Amazon molly. Flow cytometry clearly showed the tetraploid DNA content, whereas microsatellite analysis not only confirmed the tetraploidy but also pointed to allotetraploidy. Most likely the fourth genome was received through paternal leakage, namely, by fertilization of a triploid egg with a haploid sperm. The existence of tetraploid individuals offers new explanations for the enormous clonal diversity observed in wild populations of P. formosa.

MBP (Version 1.0): A Software Package to Optimize Maize Breeding Procedures Based on Doubled Haploid Lines

Gordillo, G. A., Geiger, H. H. — 2008-03-14

We developed MBP (version 1.0), a software package for optimizing maize (Zea mays L.) breeding procedures based on doubled haploid lines. This software accounts for both recurrent selection and the development of hybrid parent lines. Based on quantitative genetic model calculations, MBP (version 1.0) maximizes the expected genetic gain per year as a function of various genetic parameters and operational variables under the restriction of a given annual breeding budget. Exact formulae for the prediction of the effective population size are implemented, which allows to optimize breeding procedures under limited relative annual loss of genetic variance.

GGT 2.0: Versatile Software for Visualization and Analysis of Genetic Data

van Berloo, R. — 2008-03-14

Ever since its first release in 1999, the free software package for visualization of molecular marker data, graphical genotype (GGT), has been constantly adapted and improved. The GGT package was developed in a plant-breeding context and thus focuses on plant genetic data but was not intended to be limited to plants only. The current version has many options for genetic analysis of populations including diversity analyses and simple association studies. A second release of the GGT package, GGT 2.0 (available through http://www.plantbreeding.wur.nl), is therefore presented in this paper. An overview of existing and new features that are available within GGT 2.0, and a case study in which GGT 2.0 is applied to analyze an existing set of plant genetic data, are presented and discussed.

Shiny Pebbles on the Beach

Wills, C. — 2008-03-14

Announcements

2008-03-14

Editorial

2008-02-13

Molecular Genetic Insights on Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) Ecology and Conservation in Namibia

2008-02-13

The extent and geographic patterns of molecular genetic diversity of the largest remaining free-ranging cheetah population were described in a survey of 313 individuals from throughout Namibia. Levels of relatedness, including paternity/maternity (parentage), were assessed across all individuals using 19 polymorphic microsatellite loci, and unrelated cheetahs (n = 89) from 7 regions were genotyped at 38 loci to document broad geographical patterns. There was limited differentiation among regions, evidence that this is a generally panmictic population. Measures of genetic variation were similar among all regions and were comparable with Eastern African cheetah populations. Parentage analyses confirmed several observations based on field studies, including 21 of 23 previously hypothesized family groups, 40 probable parent/offspring pairs, and 8 sibling groups. These results also verified the successful integration and reproduction of several cheetahs following natural dispersal or translocation. Animals within social groups (family groups, male coalitions, or sibling groups) were generally related. Within the main study area, radio-collared female cheetahs were more closely interrelated than similarly compared males, a pattern consistent with greater male dispersal. The long-term maintenance of current patterns of genetic variation in Namibia depends on retaining habitat characteristics that promote natural dispersal and gene flow of cheetahs.

MHC DQB-1 Polymorphism in the Gulf of California Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus) Population

Nigenda-Morales, S., Flores-Ramirez, S., Urban-R., J., Vazquez-Juarez, R. — 2008-02-13

One of the most isolated populations of fin whales occurs in the Gulf of California (GOC) with 400–800 individuals. This population shows reduced neutral genetic variation in comparison to the North Pacific population and thus might also display limited adaptive polymorphism. We sampled 36 fin whales from the GOC and assessed genetic variation at exon 2 of the major histocompatibility complex class II DQB-1 genes responsible for eliciting immune responses. Three divergent alleles were found with higher nonsynonymous than synonymous substitution rates within the peptide-binding region positions as well as the likely retention of ancient alleles, indicating that positive selection has shaped diversity in this species. Limited levels of nonneutral polymorphism, in addition to previously described low levels of neutral polymorphism, are consistent with the results of previous studies on vertebrate populations that have remained small and demographically stable for a very long time. Such low genetic variation in the GOC fin whales could be explained by 2 demographic scenarios: an ancient isolated population with limited gene flow or a more recent founder event after the last glacial maximum with very restricted gene flow.

Population Genetic Variation and Structure of the Invasive Weed Mikania micrantha in Southern China: Consequences of Rapid Range Expansion

Wang, T., Su, Y., Chen, G. — 2008-02-13

Invasive plants such as Mikania micrantha provide valuable opportunities for studying population genetic consequences of rapid range expansion. Twenty-eight populations of M. micrantha throughout its introduced range in southern China were examined by using intersimple sequence repeat markers. Population genetic parameters were estimated by Bayesian approaches as well as conventional methods. Bottleneck signature, multilocus linkage disequilibrium, character compatibility, and cluster analyses were conducted to assay the factors that may act to shape population variability. High levels of genetic variation and differentiation were detected in the introduced populations of M. micrantha. All populations experienced severe bottlenecks. Most of them demonstrated significant linkage disequilibrium and matrix compatibility. Populations were mainly clustered into 2 groups, and those from different regions intermingled in the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) dendrogram. No geographical signature was found in the pattern of population genetic variation. This research indicates that during M. micrantha invasion, multiple introductions mitigated the loss of genetic variation associated with bottlenecks. Nonetheless, bottlenecks enhanced the population differentiation. Human-mediated long-distance dispersal events of seeds or propagules explain the lack of geographic structure in genetic variation. Although asexual reproduction is the predominant mating mode in M. micrantha, it has little effect on the population genetic composition.

Development of Unique House Mouse Resources Suitable for Evolutionary Studies of Speciation

2008-02-13

Two house mouse subspecies, Mus musculus domesticus and Mus musculus musculus, form a hybrid zone in Europe and represent a suitable model for inferring the genes contributing to isolation barriers between parental taxa. Despite long-term intensive studies of this hybrid zone, we still know relatively little about the causes and mechanisms maintaining the 2 taxa as separate subspecies; therefore, to gain insight into this process, we developed 8 wild-derived inbred house mouse strains. In order to produce strains as pure domesticus or musculus genomes as possible, the individuals used to establish the breeding colony for the 3 domesticus and 2 of the musculus strains were captured in the Czech Republic from wild populations at extreme western and eastern edges of the subspecific contact zone, respectively. The remaining 3 musculus strains were bred from mice captured about 250 km east of the hybrid zone. Genetic analysis based on 361 microsatellite loci showed that 82% of these markers are diagnostic for either the musculus or the domesticus strains. In order to demonstrate the potential utility of this genetic differentiation in such strains, phenotypic variation was scored for 2 strains from opposite edges of the hybrid zone and significant differences in morphology, reproductive performance, in vitro immune responses, mate choice based on urinary signals, and aggressiveness were found. In addition, the 3 strains derived from musculus populations far from the hybrid zone display significant differences in polymorphism in hybrid male sterility when crossed with the laboratory strains C57BL/6 or C57BL/10, which have a predominantly domesticus genome. Although further studies will be necessary to demonstrate intersubspecific differences, all analyses presented here indicate that these newly developed house mouse strains represent a powerful tool for elucidating the genetic basis of isolation barriers in hybrid zones and for studying speciation in general.

A Weak Effect of Background Selection on Trinucleotide Microsatellites in Maize

2008-02-13

Artificial selection during the domestication of maize is thought to have been predominantly positive and to have had little effect on the surrounding neutral diversity because linkage disequilibrium breaks down rapidly when physical distance increases. However, the degree to which indirect selection has shaped neutral diversity in the maize genome during domestication remains unclear. In this study, we investigate the relationship between local recombination rate and neutral polymorphism in maize and in teosinte using both sequence and microsatellite data. To quantify diversity, we estimate 3 parameters expected to differentially reflect the effects of indirect selection and mutation. We find no general correlation between diversity and recombination, indicating that indirect selection has had no genome-wide impact on maize diversity. However, we detect a weak correlation between heterozygosity and recombination for trinucleotide microsatellites deviating from the stepwise mutation model and located within genes ( = 0.32, P < 0.03). This result can be explained by a background selection hypothesis. The fact that the same correlation is not confirmed for nucleotide diversity suggests that the strength of purifying selection at or near this class of microsatellites is higher than for nucleotide mutations.

Significant Variation for Fitness Impacts of ETS Loci in Hybrids between Populations of Tigriopus californicus

Willett, C. S. — 2008-02-13

The connections between the genes that cause hybrid incompatibilities and the physiological processes disrupted in hybrids by these incompatibilities are not well understood. The interactions between proteins in the electron transport system (ETS) in the copepod, Tigriopus californicus, have emerged as a potential model system to explore such connections. In this study, the effects on hybrid fitness of 3 different nuclear loci encoding proteins of the ETS are examined in hybrid copepods obtained from crosses of genetically divergent populations of this species. The potential interactions between these genes and mitochondrial-encoded proteins of the ETS are also explored; these interactions have been shown to have diverged functionally between these populations in other studies. Large deviations from Mendelian inheritance are found in genotypic ratios at each of the 3 loci in adults but not in nauplii, demonstrating genotype-based selection during development. The length of developmental time of hybrids appears to influence the pattern of deviations in these loci, likely in conjunction with levels of competition in these crosses. The major finding of this study is that in repeated crosses, the nature of deviations at these ETS loci shows dramatic differences suggesting that slight perturbations in initial conditions can dramatically shift the patterns of selection at these ETS loci in interpopulation hybrids.

In Vitro and In Silico Annotation of Conserved and Nonconserved MicroRNAs in the Genome of the Marsupial Monodelphis domestica

Devor, E. J., Samollow, P. B. — 2008-02-13

The gray short-tailed opossum, Monodelphis domestica, is the world's most widely utilized marsupial model for biomedical research. Recent completion of the initial M. domestica genome assembly offers the first opportunity to examine genome-wide phenomena in a marsupial. Using in silico methods, we have mapped 124 conserved microRNAs (miRNAs) to 94 loci in the M. domestica genome. In addition, using RNA pooled from 5 tissues, we cloned 85 miRNAs. Seventy-two of these are conserved miRNAs that we had mapped in silico. The additional 13 are nonconserved candidate miRNAs in 11 loci. Nine of these 13 are also found in the wallaby (Macropus eugenii) genome. Two of the candidate miRNA clones, located on the X chromosome, are part of a cluster containing a total of 24 potential miRNAs spanning more than 100 kb.

Evaluation of 15 Candidate Genes for Dilated Cardiomyopathy in the Newfoundland Dog

2008-02-13

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a disease of the myocardium, which causes heart failure and premature death. It has been described in humans and several domestic animals. In the Newfoundland dog, DCM is an autosomal dominant disease with late onset and reduced penetrance. We analyzed 15 candidate genes for their involvement in DCM in the Newfoundland dog. Polymorphic microsatellite markers and single Nucleotide Polymorphisms were genotyped in 4 families of Newfoundland dogs segregating dilated cardiomyopathy for the genes encoding -cardiac actin (ACTC), caveolin (CAVI), cysteine-rich protein 3 (CSRP3), LIM-domain binding factor 3 (LDB3), desmin (DES), lamin A/C (LMNA), myosin heavy polypeptide 7 (MYH7), delta-sarcoglycan (SGCD), troponin I (TNNTI3), troponin T (TNNT2), alpha-tropomyosin (TPMI), titin (TTN) and vinculin (VCL). A Logarithm of the odds (LOD) score of less than –2.0 in 2-point linkage analysis indicated exclusion of all but 2 genes, encoding CSRP3 and DES. A (LOD) score between –1.5 and –2.0 for CSRP3 and DES makes these genes unlikely causes of DCM in this dog breed. For the phospholamban (PLN) and titin cap (TTN) genes, a direct mutation screening approach was used. DNA sequence analysis of all exons showed no evidence that these genes are involved in DCM in the Newfoundland dog.

Characterization of Bovine TGM1 and Exclusion as Candidate Gene for Ichthyosis in Chianina

2008-02-13

Ichthyosis is a heterogeneous group of keratinization disorders reported both in human and animals. Two rare, inherited forms have been reported in cattle, both characterized by autosomal recessive transmission. Because mutations of transglutaminase 1 (TGM1) gene are associated with autosomal recessive ichthyosis in people, this gene was investigated as a candidate for the diseases in cattle. Three different polymorphisms were identified in 5' end region of cattle TGM1. Marker homozygosity was not found among affected calves. Linkage analysis excluded (logarithmic odds [LOD] score –2.0) TGM1 as the cause for ichthyosis phenotype in the analyzed Chianina cases.

Announcements

2008-02-13