Nucleolar rDNA folds into condensed foci with a specific combination of epigenetic marks

Arabidopsis thaliana 45S ribosomal genes (rDNA) are located in tandem arrays called nucleolus organizing regions on the termini of chromosomes 2 and 4 (NOR2 and NOR4) and encode rRNA, a crucial structural element of the ribosome. The current model of rDNA organization suggests that inactive rRNA genes accumulate in the condensed chromocenters in the nucleus and at the nucleolar periphery, while the nucleolus delineates active genes. We challenge the perspective that all intranucleolar rDNA is active by showing that a subset of nucleolar rDNA assembles into condensed foci marked by H3.1 and H3.3 histones that also contain the repressive H3K9me2 histone mark. By using plant lines containing a low number of rDNA copies, we further found that the condensed foci relate to the folding of rDNA, which appears to be a common mechanism of rDNA regulation inside the nucleolus. The H3K9me2 histone mark found in condensed foci represents a typical modification of bulk inactive rDNA, as we show by genome-wide approaches, similar to the H2A.W histone variant. The euchromatin histone marks H3K27me3 and H3K4me3, in contrast, do not colocalize with nucleolar foci and their overall levels in the nucleolus are very low. We further demonstrate that the rDNA promoter is an important regulatory region of the rDNA, where the distribution of histone variants and histone modifications are modulated in response to rDNA activity.

Amplification and adaptation of centromeric repeats in polyploid switchgrass species

Centromeres in most higher eukaryotes are composed of long arrays of satellite repeats from a single satellite repeat family. Why centromeres are dominated by a single satellite repeat and how the satellite repeats originate and evolve are among the most intriguing and long-standing questions in centromere biology. We identified eight satellite repeats in the centromeres of tetraploid switchgrass (Panicum virgatum). Seven repeats showed characteristics associated with classical centromeric repeats with monomeric lengths ranging from 166 to 187 bp. Interestingly, these repeats share an 80-bp DNA motif. We demonstrate that this 80-bp motif may dictate translational and rotational phasing of the centromeric repeats with the cenH3 nucleosomes. The sequence of the last centromeric repeat, Pv156, is identical to the 5S ribosomal RNA genes. We demonstrate that a 5S ribosomal RNA gene array was recruited to be the functional centromere for one of the switchgrass chromosomes. Our findings reveal that certain types of satellite repeats, which are associated with unique sequence features and are composed of monomers in mono-nucleosomal length, are favorable for centromeres. Centromeric repeats may undergo dynamic amplification and adaptation before the centromeres in the same species become dominated by the best adapted satellite repeat.

Metaphase Chromosome Preparation from Soybean (Glycine max) Root Tips

This unit presents a highly reliable protocol to produce and screen metaphase chromosome spreads from root tip cell suspensions of soybean (Glycine max), or other legumes. The procedures represent soybean-optimized versions of protocols developed for maize. The use of pressurized nitrous oxide to reliably generate metaphase-arrested chromosomes is crucial to overcoming one of the challenges of working with tiny and numerous soybean chromosomes. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

High Resolution Fiber-Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization

High resolution fiber-Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is an advanced FISH technology that can effectively bridge the resolution gap between probe hybridizing on DNA molecules and chromosomal regions. Since various types of DNA and chromatin fibers can be generated reflecting different degrees of DNA/chromatin packaging status, fiber-FISH technology has been successfully used in diverse molecular cytogenetic/cytogenomic studies. Following a brief review of this technology, including its major development and increasing applications, typical protocols to generate DNA/chromatin fiber will be described, coupled with rationales, as well as technical tips. These released DNA/chromatin fibers are suitable for an array of cytogenetic/cytogenomic analyses.

Extended Chromatin and DNA Fibers from Active Plant Nuclei for High-resolution FISH

The conventional protocol for isolation of cell wall free nuclei for release of DNA fibers for plants involves mechanical removal of the cell wall and separation of debris by sieve filtration. The mechanical grinding pressure applied during the process leaves only the more tolerant G(1) nuclei intact, and all other states of active nuclei that may be present in the target tissues (e.g., leaf) are simply crushed/disrupted during the isolation process. Here we describe an alternative enzymatic protocol for isolation of nuclei from root tip tissue. Cell wall free nuclei at a given stage of cell cycle, free of any cell debris, could be realized in suspension that are fit for preparation of extended fibers suitable for fiber FISH applications. The protocol utilizes selective harvest of active nuclei from root tip tissue in liquid suspension under the influence of cell wall-degrading enzymes, and provides opportunities to target cell cycle-specific nuclei from interphase through division phase for the release of extended DNA fibers. Availability of cell cycle-specific fibers may have added value in transcriptional analysis, DNA:RNA hybridization, visualization of DNA replication and replication forks, and improved FISH efficiency.

In Situ Hybridization in Rice (Oryza sativa)

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is widely used in cytogenetics to determine the localization of DNA sequences on target chromosomes, to provide visible information regarding the physical position of DNA sequences, to determine the abundance and distribution of repetitive sequences that comprise a large proportion of genomes, and to determine the relative chromosome positions of multiple sequences in physical mapping. By mapping on extended chromatin fibers, fiber-FISH can be used to determine the structure and organization of genes or DNA sequences with a high resolution (to a few kilobases). The protocols described here will provide procedures of FISH on metaphase chromosomes and extended chromatin fibers of rice (Oryza sativa). © 2016 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Improvement of high-resolution fluorescence in situ hybridisation mapping on chromosomes of Brassica oleracea var. capitata

The low resolution of chromosome-based Fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) mapping is primarily due to the structure of the plant cell wall and cytoplasm and the compactness of regular chromosomes, which represent a significant obstacle to FISH. In order to improve spatial resolution and signal detection sensitivity, we provide a reproducible method to generate high-quality extended chromosomes that are ~13 times as long as their pachytene counterparts. We demonstrate that proteinase K used in this procedure is crucial for stretching pachytene chromosomes of Brassica oleracea in the context of a modified Carnoy's II fixative (6:1:3, ethanol:chloroform:acetic acid). The quality of super-stretched chromosomes was assessed in several FISH experiments. FISH signals from both repetitive 5S rDNA and single-copy ARC1 on super-stretched chromosomes are brighter than those on other different types of chromosome due to enhanced accessibility to targets on stretched pachytene chromosomes. In conclusion, the resulting extended chromosomes are suitable for FISH mapping for repetitive DNA sequences and the localisation of a single-copy locus, and FISH performed on super-stretched chromosomes can achieve significantly higher sensitivity and spatial resolution than other chromosome-based FISH mapping techniques.

Identification and diversity of functional centromere satellites in the wild rice species Oryza brachyantha

The centromere is a key chromosomal component for sister chromatid cohesion and is the site for kinetochore assembly and spindle fiber attachment, allowing each sister chromatid to faithfully segregate to each daughter cell during cell division. It is not clear what types of sequences act as functional centromeres and how centromere sequences are organized in Oryza brachyantha, an FF genome species. In this study, we found that the three classes of centromere-specific CentO-F satellites (CentO-F1, CentO-F2, and CentOF3) in O. brachyantha share no homology with the CentO satellites in Oryza sativa. The three classes of CentO-F satellites are all located within the chromosomal regions to which the spindle fibers attach and are characterized by megabase tandem arrays that are flanked by centromere-specific retrotransposons, CRR-F, in the O. brachyantha centromeres. Although these CentO-F satellites are quantitatively variable among 12 O. brachyantha centromeres, immunostaining with an antibody specific to CENH3 indicates that they are colocated with CENH3 in functional centromere regions. Our results demonstrate that the three classes of CentO-F satellites may be the major components of functional centromeres in O. brachyantha.

Identification and characterization of functional centromeres of the common bean

In higher eukaryotes, centromeres are typically composed of megabase-sized arrays of satellite repeats that evolve rapidly and homogenize within a species' genome. Despite the importance of centromeres, our knowledge is limited to a few model species. We conducted a comprehensive analysis of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) centromeric satellite DNA using genomic data, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), immunofluorescence and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). Two unrelated centromere-specific satellite repeats, CentPv1 and CentPv2, and the common bean centromere-specific histone H3 (PvCENH3) were identified. FISH showed that CentPv1 and CentPv2 are predominantly located at subsets of eight and three centromeres, respectively. Immunofluorescence- and ChIP-based assays demonstrated the functional significance of CentPv1 and CentPv2 at centromeres. Genomic analysis revealed several interesting features of CentPv1 and CentPv2: (i) CentPv1 is organized into an higher-order repeat structure, named Nazca, of 528 bp, whereas CentPv2 is composed of tandemly organized monomers; (ii) CentPv1 and CentPv2 have undergone chromosome-specific homogenization; and (iii) CentPv1 and CentPv2 are not likely to be commingled in the genome. These findings suggest that two distinct sets of centromere sequences have evolved independently within the common bean genome, and provide insight into centromere satellite evolution.

Systematic application of DNA fiber-FISH technique in cotton

Fluorescence in situ hybridization on extended DNA (fiber-FISH) is a powerful tool in high-resolution physical mapping. To introduce this technique into cotton, we developed the technique and tested it by deliberately mapping of telomere and 5S rDNA. Results showed that telomere-length ranged from 0.80 kb to 37.86 kb in three species, G. hirsutum, G. herbaceum and G. arboreum. However, most of the telomeres (>91.0%) were below 10 kb. The length of 5S rDNA was revealed as 964 kb in G. herbaceum whereas, in G. arboreum, it was approximately three times longer (3.1 Mb). A fiber-FISH based immunofluorescence method was also described to assay the DNA methylation. Using this technique, we revealed that both telomere and 5S rDNA were methylated at different levels. In addition, we developed a BAC molecule-based fiber-FISH technique. Using this technique, we can precisely map BAC clones on each other and evaluated the size and location of overlapped regions. The development and application of fiber-FISH technique will facilitate high-resolution physical mapping and further directed sequencing projects for cotton.

Copy number variation of multiple genes at Rhg1 mediates nematode resistance in soybean

The rhg1-b allele of soybean is widely used for resistance against soybean cyst nematode (SCN), the most economically damaging pathogen of soybeans in the United States. Gene silencing showed that genes in a 31-kilobase segment at rhg1-b, encoding an amino acid transporter, an α-SNAP protein, and a WI12 (wound-inducible domain) protein, each contribute to resistance. There is one copy of the 31-kilobase segment per haploid genome in susceptible varieties, but 10 tandem copies are present in an rhg1-b haplotype. Overexpression of the individual genes in roots was ineffective, but overexpression of the genes together conferred enhanced SCN resistance. Hence, SCN resistance mediated by the soybean quantitative trait locus Rhg1 is conferred by copy number variation that increases the expression of a set of dissimilar genes in a repeated multigene segment.

Stable integration of an engineered megabase repeat array into the maize genome

Plant genome engineering as a practical matter will require stable introduction of long and complex segments of DNA sequence into plant genomes. Here we show that it is possible to synthetically engineer and introduce centromere-sized satellite repeat arrays into maize. We designed a synthetic repeat monomer of 156 bp that contains five DNA-binding motifs (LacO, TetO, Gal4, LexA, and CENPB), and extended it into tandem arrays using an overlapping PCR method similar to that commonly used in gene synthesis. The PCR products were then directly transformed into maize using biolistic transformation. We identified three resulting insertion sites (arrayed binding sites), the longest of which is at least 1100 kb. The LacI DNA-binding module is sufficient to efficiently tether YFP to the arrayed binding sites. We conclude that synthetic repeats can be delivered into plant cells by omitting passage through Escherichia coli, that they generally insert into one locus, and that great lengths may be achieved. It is anticipated that these experimental approaches will be useful for future applications in artificial chromosome design.

De novo assembly of potential linear artificial chromosome constructs capped with expansive telomeric repeats

BACKGROUND

Artificial chromosomes (ACs) are a promising next-generation vector for genetic engineering. The most common methods for developing AC constructs are to clone and combine centromeric DNA and telomeric DNA fragments into a single large DNA construct. The AC constructs developed from such methods will contain very short telomeric DNA fragments because telomeric repeats can not be stably maintained in Escherichia coli.

RESULTS

We report a novel approach to assemble AC constructs that are capped with long telomeric DNA. We designed a plasmid vector that can be combined with a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) clone containing centromeric DNA sequences from a target plant species. The recombined clone can be used as the centromeric DNA backbone of the AC constructs. We also developed two plasmid vectors containing short arrays of plant telomeric DNA. These vectors can be used to generate expanded arrays of telomeric DNA up to several kilobases. The centromeric DNA backbone can be ligated with the telomeric DNA fragments to generate AC constructs consisting of a large centromeric DNA fragment capped with expansive telomeric DNA at both ends.

CONCLUSIONS

We successfully developed a procedure that circumvents the problem of cloning and maintaining long arrays of telomeric DNA sequences that are not stable in E. coli. Our procedure allows development of AC constructs in different eukaryotic species that are capped with long and designed sizes of telomeric DNA fragments.

Rapid divergence of repetitive DNAs in Brassica relatives

Centromeric, subtelomeric, and telomeric repetitive DNAs were characterized in Brassica species and the related Raphanus sativus and Arabidopsis thaliana. In general, rapid divergence of the repeats was found. The centromeric tandem satellite repeats were differentially distributed in the species studied, suggesting that centromeric repeats have diverged during the evolution of the A/C and B genome lineages. Sequence analysis of centromeric repeats suggested rapid evolution. Pericentromere-associated retrotransposons were identified and showed divergence during the evolution of the lineages as centromeric repeats. A novel subtelomeric tandem repeat from B. nigra was found to be conserved across the diploid Brassica genomes; however, this sequence was not identified in the related species. In contrast to previous studies, interstitial telomere-like repeats were identified in the pericentromeres of Brassica chromosomes, and these repeats may be associated with genomic stability. These results provide insight into genome evolution during polyploidization in Brassica and divergence within the Brassicaceae.

Recent advances in rice genome and chromosome structure research by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is an effective method for the physical mapping of genes and repetitive DNA sequences on chromosomes. Physical mapping of unique nucleotide sequences on specific rice chromosome regions was performed using a combination of chromosome identification and highly sensitive FISH. Increases in the detection sensitivity of smaller DNA sequences and improvements in spatial resolution have ushered in a new phase in FISH technology. Thus, it is now possible to perform in situ hybridization on somatic chromosomes, pachytene chromosomes, and even on extended DNA fibers (EDFs). Pachytene-FISH allows the integration of genetic linkage maps and quantitative chromosome maps. Visualization methods using FISH can reveal the spatial organization of the centromere, heterochromatin/euchromatin, and the terminal structures of rice chromosomes. Furthermore, EDF-FISH and the DNA combing technique can resolve a spatial distance of 1 kb between adjacent DNA sequences, and the detection of even a 300-bp target is now feasible. The copy numbers of various repetitive sequences and the sizes of various DNA molecules were quantitatively measured using the molecular combing technique. This review describes the significance of these advances in molecular cytology in rice and discusses future applications in plant studies using visualization techniques.

Maize centromere structure and evolution: sequence analysis of centromeres 2 and 5 reveals dynamic Loci shaped primarily by retrotransposons

We describe a comprehensive and general approach for mapping centromeres and present a detailed characterization of two maize centromeres. Centromeres are difficult to map and analyze because they consist primarily of repetitive DNA sequences, which in maize are the tandem satellite repeat CentC and interspersed centromeric retrotransposons of maize (CRM). Centromeres are defined epigenetically by the centromeric histone H3 variant, CENH3. Using novel markers derived from centromere repeats, we have mapped all ten centromeres onto the physical and genetic maps of maize. We were able to completely traverse centromeres 2 and 5, confirm physical maps by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and delineate their functional regions by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) with anti-CENH3 antibody followed by pyrosequencing. These two centromeres differ substantially in size, apparent CENH3 density, and arrangement of centromeric repeats; and they are larger than the rice centromeres characterized to date. Furthermore, centromere 5 consists of two distinct CENH3 domains that are separated by several megabases. Succession of centromere repeat classes is evidenced by the fact that elements belonging to the recently active recombinant subgroups of CRM1 colonize the present day centromeres, while elements of the ancestral subgroups are also found in the flanking regions. Using abundant CRM and non-CRM retrotransposons that inserted in and near these two centromeres to create a historical record of centromere location, we show that maize centromeres are fluid genomic regions whose borders are heavily influenced by the interplay of retrotransposons and epigenetic marks. Furthermore, we propose that CRMs may be involved in removal of centromeric DNA (specifically CentC), invasion of centromeres by non-CRM retrotransposons, and local repositioning of the CENH3.

Centromeres tend to be the last regions to be assembled in genome projects, as their mapping is hampered by their characteristically high repeat DNA content and lack of genetic recombination. Using unique markers derived from these repeat-rich regions, we were able to generate and annotate physical maps of two maize centromeres. Functional centromeres are defined not so much by their primary DNA sequence as by the presence of CENH3, a special histone that replaces canonical histone H3 in centromeric nucleosomes. Little is known about how deposition of CENH3 is regulated, or about the interplay between centromeric repeats and CENH3. By graphing the density of CENH3 nucleosomes onto the physical map, we delineated the functional centromeres in today's maize genome. We then used the large number of LTR retrotransposon insertions, for which the corn genome is well known, as “archeological evidence” to reconstruct the historic centromere boundaries. This was possible because i) some retrotransposon families of maize (CRM) appear to possess a unique ability to preferentially target centromeres during integration and ii) insertion times of individual retrotransposons can be calculated. Here we show that the centromere boundaries in maize have changed over time and are heavily influenced by centromeric and non-centromeric repeats.

Sequenced BAC anchored reference genetic map that reconciles the ten individual chromosomes of Brassica rapa

Background

In view of the immense value of Brassica rapa in the fields of agriculture and molecular biology, the multinational Brassica rapa Genome Sequencing Project (BrGSP) was launched in 2003 by five countries. The developing BrGSP has valuable resources for the community, including a reference genetic map and seed BAC sequences. Although the initial B. rapa linkage map served as a reference for the BrGSP, there was ambiguity in reconciling the linkage groups with the ten chromosomes of B. rapa. Consequently, the BrGSP assigned each of the linkage groups to the project members as chromosome substitutes for sequencing.

Results

We identified simple sequence repeat (SSR) motifs in the B. rapa genome with the sequences of seed BACs used for the BrGSP. By testing 749 amplicons containing SSR motifs, we identified polymorphisms that enabled the anchoring of 188 BACs onto the B. rapa reference linkage map consisting of 719 loci in the 10 linkage groups with an average distance of 1.6 cM between adjacent loci. The anchored BAC sequences enabled the identification of 30 blocks of conserved synteny, totaling 534.9 cM in length, between the genomes of B. rapa and Arabidopsis thaliana. Most of these were consistent with previously reported duplication and rearrangement events that differentiate these genomes. However, we were able to identify the collinear regions for seven additional previously uncharacterized sections of the A genome. Integration of the linkage map with the B. rapa cytogenetic map was accomplished by FISH with probes representing 20 BAC clones, along with probes for rDNA and centromeric repeat sequences. This integration enabled unambiguous alignment and orientation of the maps representing the 10 B. rapa chromosomes.

Conclusion

We developed a second generation reference linkage map for B. rapa, which was aligned unambiguously to the B. rapa cytogenetic map. Furthermore, using our data, we confirmed and extended the comparative genome analysis between B. rapa and A. thaliana. This work will serve as a basis for integrating the genetic, physical, and chromosome maps of the BrGSP, as well as for studies on polyploidization, speciation, and genome duplication in the genus Brassica.

Construction of chromosomal recombination maps of three genomes of lilies (Lilium) based on GISH analysis

Chromosomal recombination maps were constructed for three genomes of lily (Lilium) using GISH analyses. For this purpose, the backcross (BC) progenies of two diploid (2n = 2x = 24) interspecific hybrids of lily, viz. Longiflorum x Asiatic (LA) and Oriental x Asiatic (OA), were used. Mostly the BC progenies of LA hybrids consisted of both triploid (2n = 3x = 36) and diploid (2n = 2x = 24) with some aneuploid genotypes and those of OA hybrids consisted of triploid (2n = 3x = 36) and some aneuploid genotypes. In all cases, it was possible to identify the homoeologous recombinant chromosomes as well as accurately count the number of crossover points, which are called "recombination sites". Recombination sites were estimated in the BC progeny of 71 LA and 41 OA genotypes. In the case of BC progenies of LA hybrids, 248 recombination sites were cytologically localized on 12 different chromosomes of each genome (i.e., L and A). Similarly, 116 recombinant sites were localized on the 12 chromosomes each from the BC progenies of OA hybrids (O and A genomes). Cytological maps were constructed on the basis of the percentages of distances (micrometres) of the recombination sites from the centromeres. Since an Asiatic parent was involved in both hybrids, viz. LA and OA, two maps were constructed for the A genome that were indicated as Asiatic (L) and Asiatic (O). The other two maps were Longiflorum (A) and Oriental (A). Remarkably, the recombination sites were highly unevenly distributed among the different chromosomes of all four maps. Because the recombination sites can be unequivocally identified through GISH, they serve as reliable landmarks and pave the way for assigning molecular markers or desirable genes to chromosomes of Lilium and also monitor introgression of alien segments.

Evolution of ribosomal DNA-derived satellite repeat in tomato genome

BACKGROUND

Tandemly repeated DNA, also called as satellite DNA, is a common feature of eukaryotic genomes. Satellite repeats can expand and contract dramatically, which may cause genome size variation among genetically-related species. However, the origin and expansion mechanism are not clear yet and needed to be elucidated.

RESULTS

FISH analysis revealed that the satellite repeat showing homology with intergenic spacer (IGS) of rDNA present in the tomato genome. By comparing the sequences representing distinct stages in the divergence of rDNA repeat with those of canonical rDNA arrays, the molecular mechanism of the evolution of satellite repeat is described. Comprehensive sequence analysis and phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that a long terminal repeat retrotransposon was interrupted into each copy of the 18S rDNA and polymerized by recombination rather than transposition via an RNA intermediate. The repeat was expanded through doubling the number of IGS into the 25S rRNA gene, and also greatly increasing the copy number of type I subrepeat in the IGS of 25-18S rDNA by segmental duplication. Homogenization to a single type of subrepeat in the satellite repeat was achieved as the result of amplifying copy number of the type I subrepeat but eliminating neighboring sequences including the type II subrepeat and rRNA coding sequence from the array. FISH analysis revealed that the satellite repeats are commonly present in closely-related Solanum species, but vary in their distribution and abundance among species.

CONCLUSION

These results represent that the dynamic satellite repeats were originated from intergenic spacer of rDNA unit in the tomato genome. This result could serve as an example towards understanding the initiation and the expansion of the satellite repeats in complex eukaryotic genome.

Cytological characterization of the tandem repetitive sequences and their methylation status in the Antirrhinum majus genome

Tandem repetitive sequences are DNA motifs common in the genomes of eukaryotic species and are often embedded in heterochromatic regions. In most eukaryotes, ribosomal genes, as well as centromeres and telomeres or subtelomeres, are associated with abundant tandem arrays of repetitive sequences and typically represent the final barriers to completion of whole-genome sequencing. The nature of these repeats makes it difficult to estimate their actual sizes. In this study, combining the two cytological techniques DNA fiber-FISH and pachytene chromosome FISH allowed us to characterize the tandem repeats distributed genome wide in Antirrhinum majus and identify four types of tandem repeats, 45S rDNA, 5S rDNA, CentA1, and CentA2, representing the major tandem repetitive components, which were estimated to have a total length of 18.50 Mb and account for 3.59% of the A. majus genome. FISH examination revealed that all the tandem repeats correspond to heterochromatic knobs along the pachytene chromosomes. Moreover, the methylation status of the tandem repeats was investigated in both somatic cells and pollen mother cells from anther tissues using an antibody against 5-methylcytosine combined with sequential FISH analyses. Our results showed that these repeats were hypomethylated in anther tissues, especially in the pollen mother cells at pachytene stage.

Hyper-phosphorylated retinoblastoma protein suppresses telomere elongation

Immortalized cell lines maintain telomeres by the expression of telomerase or by a mechanism designated alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). Although DNA polymerase alpha (pol-alpha) is reported to be required for telomere maintenance, the critical role of pol-alpha in telomere maintenance has not been firmly determined. We examined the role of retinoblastoma protein (pRb) and pol-alpha in the regulation of telomere length, using telomere-fiber FISH. Telomere length varied dependent on the intracellular abundance of pol-alpha or pRb in HeLa cells. A proportion of hyper-phosphorylated pRb (ppRb) molecules localized to sites of telomeric DNA replication in HeLa cells. Pol-alpha might thus contribute to telomere maintenance, and might be regulated by ppRb.

Chromosomal location and gene paucity of the male specific region on papaya Y chromosome

Sex chromosomes in flowering plants evolved recently and many of them remain homomorphic, including those in papaya. We investigated the chromosomal location of papaya's small male specific region of the hermaphrodite Y (Yh) chromosome (MSY) and its genomic features. We conducted chromosome fluorescence in situ hybridization mapping of Yh-specific bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs) and placed the MSY near the centromere of the papaya Y chromosome. Then we sequenced five MSY BACs to examine the genomic features of this specialized region, which resulted in the largest collection of contiguous genomic DNA sequences of a Y chromosome in flowering plants. Extreme gene paucity was observed in the papaya MSY with no functional gene identified in 715 kb MSY sequences. A high density of retroelements and local sequence duplications were detected in the MSY that is suppressed for recombination. Location of the papaya MSY near the centromere might have provided recombination suppression and fostered paucity of genes in the male specific region of the Y chromosome. Our findings provide critical information for deciphering the sex chromosomes in papaya and reference information for comparative studies of other sex chromosomes in animals and plants.

Transformation of rice with long DNA-segments consisting of random genomic DNA or centromere-specific DNA

Rice was transformed with either long DNA-segments of random genomic DNA from rice, or centromere-specific DNA sequences from either maize or rice. Despite the repetitive nature of the transgenic DNA sequences, the centromere-specific sequences were inserted largely intact and behave as simple Mendelian units. Between 4 and 5% of bombarded callus clusters were transformed when bombarded with just pCAMBIA 1305.2. Frequency of recovery dropped to 2-3% when BACs with random genomic inserts were co-bombarded with pCAMBIA, and fell to less than 1% when BACs with centromeric DNA inserts and pCAMBIA were co-bombarded. A similar effect was noted on regeneration frequency. Differences in transformation ability, regeneration and behavior of plants transgenic for BACs with random genomic DNA inserts, as compared to those with centromeric DNA inserts, suggests functional differences between these two types of DNA.

In situ methods to localize transgenes and transcripts in interphase nuclei: a tool for transgenic plant research

Genetic engineering of commercially important crops has become routine in many laboratories. However, the inability to predict where a transgene will integrate and to efficiently select plants with stable levels of transgenic expression remains a limitation of this technology. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is a powerful technique that can be used to visualize transgene integration sites and provide a better understanding of transgene behavior. Studies using FISH to characterize transgene integration have focused primarily on metaphase chromosomes, because the number and position of integration sites on the chromosomes are more easily determined at this stage. However gene (and transgene) expression occurs mainly during interphase. In order to accurately predict the activity of a transgene, it is critical to understand its location and dynamics in the three-dimensional interphase nucleus. We and others have developed in situ methods to visualize transgenes (including single copy genes) and their transcripts during interphase from different tissues and plant species. These techniques reduce the time necessary for characterization of transgene integration by eliminating the need for time-consuming segregation analysis, and extend characterization to the interphase nucleus, thus increasing the likelihood of accurate prediction of transgene activity. Furthermore, this approach is useful for studying nuclear organization and the dynamics of genes and chromatin.

Ecotype-specific and chromosome-specific expansion of variant centromeric satellites in Arabidopsis thaliana

Despite the conserved roles and conserved protein machineries of centromeres, their nucleotide sequences can be highly diverse even among related species. The diversity reflects rapid evolution, but the underlying mechanism is largely unknown. One approach to monitor rapid evolution is examination of intra-specific variation. Here we report variant centromeric satellites of Arabidopsis thaliana found through survey of 103 natural accessions (ecotypes). Among them, a cluster of variant centromeric satellites was detected in one ecotype, Cape Verde Islands (Cvi). Recombinant inbred mapping revealed that the variant satellites are distributed in centromeric region of the chromosome 5 (CEN5) of this ecotype. This apparently recent variant accumulation is associated with large deletion of a pericentromeric region and the expansion of satellite region. The variant satellite was bound to HTR12 (centromeric variant histone H3), although expansion of the satellite was not associated with comparable increase in the HTR12 binding. The results suggest that variant satellites with centromere function can rapidly accumulate in one centromere, supporting the model that the satellite repeats in the array are homogenized by occasional unequal crossing-over, which has a potential to generate an expansion of local sequence variants within a centromere cluster.

Current status and the future of fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in plant genome research

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), which allows direct mapping of DNA sequences on chromosomes, has become the most important technique in plant molecular cytogenetics research. Repetitive DNA sequence can generate unique FISH patterns on individual chromosomes for karyotyping and phylogenetic analysis. FISH on meiotic pachytene chromosomes coupled with digital imaging systems has become an efficient method to develop physical maps in plant species. FISH on extended DNA fibers provides a high-resolution mapping approach to analyze large DNA molecules and to characterize large genomic loci. FISH-based physical mapping provides a valuable complementary approach in genome sequencing and map-based cloning research. We expect that FISH will continue to play an important role in relating DNA sequence information to chromosome biology. FISH coupled with immunoassays will be increasingly used to study features of chromatin at the cytological level that control expression and regulation of genes.

Genomic analysis of a 1 Mb region near the telomere of Hessian fly chromosome X2 and avirulence gene vH13

BACKGROUND

To have an insight into the Mayetiola destructor (Hessian fly) genome, we performed an in silico comparative genomic analysis utilizing genetic mapping, genomic sequence and EST sequence data along with data available from public databases.

RESULTS

Chromosome walking and FISH were utilized to identify a contig of 50 BAC clones near the telomere of the short arm of Hessian fly chromosome X2 and near the avirulence gene vH13. These clones enabled us to correlate physical and genetic distance in this region of the Hessian fly genome. Sequence data from these BAC ends encompassing a 760 kb region, and a fully sequenced and assembled 42.6 kb BAC clone, was utilized to perform a comparative genomic study. In silico gene prediction combined with BLAST analyses was used to determine putative orthology to the sequenced dipteran genomes of the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, and the malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae, and to infer evolutionary relationships.

CONCLUSION

This initial effort enables us to advance our understanding of the structure, composition and evolution of the genome of this important agricultural pest and is an invaluable tool for a whole genome sequencing effort.

Comparative genomics reveals expansion of the FLC region in the genus Arabidopsis

Mechanisms of genome evolution are poorly understood although recent genome sequencing is providing the tools to begin to illuminate such mechanisms. Using high-resolution molecular cytogenetic tools, we examined the structural evolution of 790 kb surrounding the evolutionarily important FLC locus of Arabidopsis thaliana in three of its relatives, Arabidopsis halleri, Arabidopsis neglecta and Arabidopsis arenosa. Sequenced BACs from A. thaliana were used as heterologous probes across these species and genome expansion was found in all three species relative to A. thaliana, ranging from 16 to 27%. Expansion was seen along the length of the entire region but molecular analyses revealed no characteristic pattern of either intra- or intergenic expansion among these species. Mapping of BACs on DNA fibers from A. thaliana revealed one possible error, approximately 14 kb missing from the reported sequence, indicating that for comparative studies it is important to confirm the reference sequence to which comparison will be made.

Physical mapping and microsynteny of Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis genome corresponding to a 222 kbp gene-rich region of Arabidopsis chromosome 4 and partially duplicated on chromosome 5

We constructed a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) library, designated as KBrH, from high molecular weight genomic DNA of Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis (Chinese cabbage). This library, which was constructed using HindIII-cleaved genomic DNA, consists of 56,592 clones with average insert size of 115 kbp. Using a partially duplicated DNA sequence of Arabidopsis, represented by 19 and 9 predicted genes on chromosome 4 and 5, respectively, and BAC clones from the KBrH library, we studied conservation and microsynteny corresponding to the Arabidopsis regions in B. rapa ssp. pekinensis. The BAC contigs assembled according to the Arabidopsis homoeologues revealed triplication and rearrangements in the Chinese cabbage. In general, collinearity of genes in the paralogous segments was maintained, but gene contents were highly variable with interstitial losses. We also used representative BAC clones, from the assembled contigs, as probes and hybridized them on mitotic (metaphase) and/or meiotic (leptotene/pachytene/metaphase I) chromosomes of Chinese cabbage using bicolor fluorescence in situ hybridization. The hybridization pattern physically identified the paralogous segments of the Arabidopsis homoeologues on B. rapa ssp. pekinensis chromosomes. The homoeologous segments corresponding to chromosome 4 of Arabidopsis were located on chromosomes 2, 8 and 7, whereas those of chromosome 5 were present on chromosomes 6, 1 and 4 of B. rapa ssp. pekinensis.

The transcribed 165-bp CentO satellite is the major functional centromeric element in the wild rice species Oryza punctata

Centromeres are required for faithful segregation of chromosomes in cell division. It is not clear what kind of sequences act as functional centromeres and how centromere sequences are organized in Oryza punctata, a BB genome species. In this study, we found that the CentO centromeric satellites in O. punctata share high homology with the CentO satellites in O. sativa. The O. punctata centromeres are characterized by megabase tandem arrays that are flanked by centromere-specific retrotransposons. Immunostaining with an antibody specific to CENH3 indicates that the 165-bp CentO satellites are the major component for functional centromeres. Moreover, both strands of CentO satellites are highly methylated and transcribed and produce small interfering RNA, which may be important for the maintenance of centromeric heterochromatin and centromere function.

Construction of a micro-library enriched with genomic replication origins of carrot somatic embryos by laser microdissection

In this paper, we describe an effective method for constructing a micro-library enriched with chromosomal DNA replication origins. Carrot (Daucus carota L.) somatic embryos at early globular stage were incubated for 15 min in the presence of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) to pulse label newly synthesized DNA strands. Nuclei were isolated from the cells, and the DNA was extracted on microscopic slides. DNA fibers spread on slides were visualized using anti-BrdU and FITC-conjugated secondary antibodies. DNA regions where BrdU was incorporated were clearly visualized under a fluorescent microscope as dots on DNA fibers. Regions of DNA fiber containing many fluorescent dots should contain replicons in them. DNA fibers showing many fluorescence dots, or replicons were easily cut and collected using a laser microdissection system equipped with a pulse laser beam. DNA fragments containing many replicons were able to be collected with an efficiency of 20-30 DNA fragments per 1 h. Using degenerate oligonucleotide primed PCR, fragments were randomly amplified from the microdissected fragments, and subcloned to construct a micro-library. This is the first report of the application of a laser microdissection technique for constructing a micro-library enriched with replication origins of chromosomal DNA, although there were some reports on laser microdissection of chromosomes. The simple procedure established here should open up a new application of laser optics.

Preparation of samples for comparative studies of plant chromosomes using in situ hybridization methods

The development of fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) has led to the advancement of chromosome studies not only for physical mapping and genome analyses but also as a tool for evolutionary studies. Isolated repetitive DNA sequences have been useful cytological markers, but large-insert genomic libraries (e.g., bacterial artificial chromosomes [BACs], yeast artificial chromosomes [YACs], and cosmids) are being increasingly used to serve as probes for large segments of DNA across related genomes. Although FISH is usually applied to metaphase chromosomes, fiber FISH, a variation of FISH using extended DNA fibers, is now used to measure loci at the resolution of a few kilobases to compare orthologous genome segments across related genomes. A generalized set of protocols for chromosome preparation, FISH, and fiber FISH are presented; however, it is often necessary to experiment with techniques for different plant taxa for successful molecular cytogenetic studies.

A molecular view of plant centromeres

Although plants were the organisms of choice in several classical centromere studies, molecular and biochemical studies of plant centromeres have lagged behind those in model animal species. However, in the past several years, several centromeric repetitive DNA elements have been isolated in plant species and their roles in centromere function have been demonstrated. Most significantly, a Ty3/gypsy class of centromere-specific retrotransposons, the CR family, was discovered in the grass species. The CR elements are highly enriched in chromatin domains associated with CENH3, the centromere-specific histone H3 variant. CR elements as well as their flanking centromeric satellite DNA are actively transcribed in maize. These data suggest that the deposition of centromeric histones might be a transcription-coupled event.

Genetic and cytogenetic mapping of DMI1, DMI2, and DMI3 genes of Medicago truncatula involved in Nod factor transduction, nodulation, and mycorrhization

The DMI1, DMI2, and DMI3 genes of Medicago truncatula, which are required for both nodulation and mycorrhization, control early steps of Nod factor signal transduction. Here, we have used diverse approaches to pave the way for the map-based cloning of these genes. Molecular amplification fragment length polymorphism markers linked to the three genes were identified by bulked segregant analysis. Integration of these markers into the general genetic map of M. truncatula revealed that DMI1, DMI2, and DMI3 are located on linkage groups 2, 5, and 8, respectively. Cytogenetic studies using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) on mitotic and pachytene chromosomes confirmed the location of DMI1, DMI2, and DMI3 on chromosomes 2, 5, and 8. FISH-pachytene studies revealed that the three genes are in euchromatic regions of the genome, with a ratio of genetic to cytogenetic distances between 0.8 and 1.6 cM per microm in the DMI1, DMI2, and DMI3 regions. Through grafting experiments, we showed that the genetic control of the dmi1, dmi2, and dmi3 nodulation phenotypes is determined at the root level. This means that mutants can be transformed by Agrobacterium rhizogenes to accelerate the complementation step of map-based cloning projects for DMI1, DMI2, and DMI3.

Physical mapping of plasmid and cosmid clones in filamentous fungi by fiber-FISH

Fluorescence in situ hybridization to extended DNA fibers (fiber-FISH) serves as a powerful tool for direct physical mapping in plants and animals. Here, we show that fiber-FISH is useful for contig mapping as well as for estimating the physical distance between genetic markers in fungi. A five-cosmid contig from a chromosome of Nectria haematococca and four cloned genetic markers from a linkage map of Cochliobolus heterostrophus were chosen as models for the application of this technology. In N. haematococca, overlapping and non-overlapping clones were visually mapped on individual DNA fibers, confirming the results from conventional physical mapping perfectly. Fiber-FISH concomitantly indicated the gap size or the extent of overlap between two clones. In C. heterostrophus, the physical distance between the two pairs of genetic markers could be estimated from the microscopic measurements of the intervals. Chromosomal DNA isolated from a pulsed field gel was suitable for preparing the DNA fibers.

DNA fiber mapping techniques for the assembly of high-resolution physical maps

High-resolution physical maps are indispensable for directed sequencing projects or the finishing stages of shotgun sequencing projects. These maps are also critical for the positional cloning of disease genes and genetic elements that regulate gene expression. Typically, physical maps are based on ordered sets of large insert DNA clones from cosmid, P1/PAC/BAC, or yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) libraries. Recent technical developments provide detailed information about overlaps or gaps between clones and precisely locate the position of sequence tagged sites or expressed sequences, and thus support efforts to determine the complete sequence of the human genome and model organisms. Assembly of physical maps is greatly facilitated by hybridization of non-isotopically labeled DNA probes onto DNA molecules that were released from interphase cell nuclei or recombinant DNA clones, stretched to some extent and then immobilized on a solid support. The bound DNA, collectively called "DNA fibers," may consist of single DNA molecules in some experiments or bundles of chromatin fibers in others. Once released from the interphase nuclei, the DNA fibers become more accessible to probes and detection reagents. Hybridization efficiency is therefore increased, allowing the detection of DNA targets as small as a few hundred base pairs. This review summarizes different approaches to DNA fiber mapping and discusses the detection sensitivity and mapping accuracy as well as recent achievements in mapping expressed sequence tags and DNA replication sites.

Integrated cytogenetic map of chromosome arm 4S of A. thaliana: structural organization of heterochromatic knob and centromere region

We have constructed an integrated cytogenetic map of chromosome arm 4S of Arabidopsis thaliana. The map shows the detailed positions of various multicopy and unique sequences relative to euchromatin and heterochromatin segments. A quantitative analysis of the map positions at subsequent meiotic stages revealed a striking pattern of spatial and temporal variation in chromatin condensation for euchromatin and heterochromatin. For example, the centromere region consists of three domains with distinguishable structural, molecular, and functional properties. We also characterized a conspicuous heterochromatic knob of approximately 700 kb that accommodates a tandem repeat and several dispersed pericentromere-specific repeats. Moreover, our data provide evidence for an inversion event that relocated pericentromeric sequences to an interstitial position, resulting in the heterochromatic knob.

High resolution FISH in plants - techniques and applications

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is an effective and accurate cytogenetic tool for mapping single copy and repetitive DNA sequences on chromosomes. Attempts to increase the detection sensitivity of very small chromosomal targets, and to improve the spatial resolution of signals derived from flanking sequences, have led to the development of a variety of novel techniques: it is now possible to perform in situ hybridizations on interphase nuclei, meiotic pachytene chromosomes and isolated chromatin (DNA fibres). The recent application of these techniques has indicated that a spatial resolution of 1 kb between adjacent targets and a sensitivity of targets smaller than 1 kb is now feasible. Here, we describe the benefits of these novel chromosome analysis techniques and discuss their relevance for the study of plant genomes.

Digital mapping of bacterial artificial chromosomes by fluorescence in situ hybridization

The bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) has become the most popular tool for cloning large DNA fragments. The inserts of most BAC clones average 100-200 kilobases (kb) and molecular characterization of such large DNA fragments is a major challenge. Here we report a simple and expedient technique for physical mapping of BAC inserts. Individual BAC molecules were immobilized on glass slides coated with Poly-L-lysine. The intact circular BAC molecules were visualized by fluorescence in situ hybridization using BAC DNA as a probe. The 7.4 kb BAC vector was extended to approximately 2.44 kb per micrometer. Digitally measured linear distances can be transformed into kilobases of DNA using the extension of BAC vector as a standard calibration. We mapped DNA fragments as small as 2 kb directly on circular BAC molecules. A rice BAC clone containing both tandem and dispersed repeats was analyzed using this technique. The distribution and organization of the different repeats within the BAC insert were efficiently determined. The results showed that this technique will be especially valuable for characterizing BAC clones that contain complex repetitive DNA sequences.