Molecular analysis of P element behavior in Drosophila simulans transformants.
In this report we describe the successful transformation of Drosophila simulans with an autonomous P element from Drosophila melanogaster without the use of a selectable marker. This result demonstrates that there is no species barrier for P element transposition. Utilizing gel blotting and in situ hybridization techniques, we have monitored the behavior of newly-introduced P elements in several D. simulans transformed lines over twelve generations. In most instances, an overall increase in the number of P elements was observed. An examination of the frequency of P-element-bearing individuals in one line revealed the rapid spread of P elements through the population. Analysis of well-characterized sublines confirmed that P elements increase in number by transposition to new genomic sites. The formation of degenerate elements occurred in at least one case. These observations suggest that P elements may behave similarly in D. melanogaster and D. simulans.
Daniels
S B
SB
Strausbaugh
L D
LD
Armstrong
R A
RA
D000818:Animals; D002872:Chromosome Deletion; D004247:DNA / Q000302:isolation & purification; D004262:DNA Restriction Enzymes; D004251:DNA Transposable Elements; D004330:Drosophila / Q000235:genetics*; D005260:Female; D008297:Male; D009693:Nucleic Acid Hybridization; D010957:Plasmids; D014170:Transformation, Genetic
D004251:DNA Transposable Elements; D004247:DNA; D004262:DNA Restriction Enzymes