Flow sorting and molecular cytogenetic identification of individual chromosomes of Dasypyrum villosum L. (H. villosa) by a single DNA probe

PLoS One. 2012;7(11):e50151. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0050151. Epub 2012 Nov 20.

Abstract

Dasypyrum villosum (L.) Candargy (sin. Haynaldia villosa) is an annual wild diploid grass species (2n = 2x = 14; genome VV) belonging to the Poaceae family, which is considered to be an important source of biotic and abiotic stress resistance genes for wheat breeding. Enhanced characterization of D. villosum chromosomes can facilitate exploitation of its gene pool and its use in wheat breeding programs. Here we present the cytogenetic identification of D. villosum chromosomes on slide by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), with the GAA simple sequence repeat (SSR) as a probe. We also describe the isolation and the flow cytometric analysis of D. villosum chromosomes in suspension, resulting in a distinguished flow karyotype. Chromosomes were flow sorted into three fractions, according their DNA content, one of which was composed of a single type of chromosome, namely 6 V, sorted with over 85% purity. Chromosome 6 V is known to carry genes to code for important resistance and seed storage characteristics, and its isolation represents a new source of genetic traits and specific markers useful for wheat improvement.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Chromosomes, Plant / chemistry*
  • DNA Probes / genetics
  • DNA, Plant / genetics*
  • Flow Cytometry
  • Genome, Plant*
  • Hybridization, Genetic
  • In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence
  • Karyotyping
  • Microsatellite Repeats
  • Ploidies
  • Poaceae / genetics*
  • Triticum / genetics*

Substances

  • DNA Probes
  • DNA, Plant

Grants and funding

This work was supported by the Italian Ministry of Agriculture “Progetto MAPPA 5A” (D.M. 7398/7303/08). The funder had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.