Two-step CRISPR-Cas9 protocol for transposable element deletion in D. melanogaster natural populations

STAR Protoc. 2023 Sep 15;4(3):102501. doi: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102501. Epub 2023 Aug 15.

Abstract

We present a protocol for generating a precise deletion, without altering the genetic background of the strain, of a transposable element (TE) in a natural population of Drosophila melanogaster using two steps of CRISPR-Cas9 homology-directed repair. We describe steps for replacing the TE by a fluorescent marker and for subsequent marker removal using single-guide RNAs, repair plasmids, and microinjection. We also detail steps for screening the deletion of the TE and generating a homozygous mutant strain. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Merenciano and Gonzalez.1.

Keywords: CRISPR; Evolutionary Biology; Genetics; Model Organisms; Molecular Biology.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • CRISPR-Cas Systems / genetics
  • DNA Transposable Elements* / genetics
  • Drosophila melanogaster* / genetics
  • RNA, Guide, CRISPR-Cas Systems
  • Recombination, Genetic

Substances

  • DNA Transposable Elements
  • RNA, Guide, CRISPR-Cas Systems