Our laboratory examines sequence composition, molecular organization and evolution of plant genomes and chromosomes. We focus on legumes ( Fabaceae), using pea (Pisum sativum) and several Vicia species as model plants. Our research is centered around two basic topics:
(1) Repetitive DNA sequences and their impact on genome organization and evolution. We analyze sequence composition and abundance in plant genomes of both major classes of repetitve sequences: transposable elements and satellite repeats. We have isolated a number of novel repeats representing significant portions of Vicia and Pisum genomes and characterized them with respect to their nucleotide sequences, chromosomal localization, and abundance in individual legume species. In a long term, we are particularily interested in evolutionary dynamics of DNA repeats and their eventual function in plant genomes.
(2) Integration of genetic and physical maps in crop species and development of novel approaches for efficient mapping of complex plant genomes. We have been developing advanced techniques for physical mapping of molecular markers, based on purification of individual types of metaphase chromosomes using micromanipulation or flow sorting. Purified chromosomes are then used for PCR detection of specific sequences like RFLP or microsatellite markes. We also prepare chromosome-specific DNA libraries which are subsequently used for targeted retreival of molecular markers from defined portions of the genome. Integration of these markers into genetic maps then allows assigning linkage groups to individual chromosomes or their segments. In order to distinguish chromosomes within the karyotype we construct cytogenetic maps using in situ hybridization of probes derived from various repetitive sequences.
The laboratory prepared several chromosome-specific and shotgun DNA libraries that are available for researchers interested in genome mapping (see Resources). In order to facilitate comprehensive computer analysis of satellite sequences we maintain the PlantSat database, a collection of known plant satellite repeats accessible via WWW interface.
|
Address: Laboratory of Molecular Cytogenetics Institute of Plant Molecular Biology Branisovska 31 Ceske Budejovice CZ-37005, Czech Republic |
Contact person:
Jiri Macas Phone: +420 38 7775513 Fax: +420 38 5310356 |