Related Experiment Videos
Progressive resistance against the male recombination factor 31.1 MRF acquired by Drosophila melanogaster
Experientia
|August 15, 1978
Abstract:
A genetically abnormal but structurally normal second chromosome (31.1 MRF) which induces recombination in the male sex, was introduced by outcrossing into the cytoplasm of a normal strain. In this new combination, male recombination frequency induced by females dropped from 3.81% to 0.17% within 10 generations, indicating a gradual acquisition of resistance against the activities of the 31.1 MRF.
Insights
A specific chromosome abnormality (31.1 MRF) that causes male recombination was introduced into a normal strain. Over 10 generations, the strain developed resistance, significantly reducing recombination frequency.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- A genetically abnormal second chromosome, designated 31.1 MRF, is known to induce recombination in males.
- This chromosome was introduced into the cytoplasm of a normal strain via outcrossing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of introducing the 31.1 MRF chromosome into a normal strain's cytoplasm.
- To observe the long-term changes in male recombination frequency and assess the development of resistance.
Main Methods:
- Introduction of the 31.1 MRF chromosome into a normal strain through outcrossing.
- Monitoring male recombination frequency over 10 generations.
Main Results:
- Male recombination frequency, initially 3.81%, dropped significantly to 0.17% within 10 generations.
- This reduction indicates the acquisition of resistance against the recombination-inducing activity of the 31.1 MRF chromosome.
Conclusions:
- The normal strain cytoplasm can acquire resistance to the effects of the 31.1 MRF chromosome over generations.
- This suggests an adaptive or regulatory mechanism evolving in response to the introduced genetic abnormality.