Assignment of non-informative turkey genetic markers through comparative approaches

Molecular markers such as microsatellites, provide genetic signposts for navigating genomes. In general, genetic markers that are monomorphic or non-informative in mapping populations typically remain unmapped and as such are less likely to be included in future studies. The use of hybrid cell panels and in silico mapping via whole genome sequences allow for positional mapping of non-segregating markers. This study utilizes the INRA ChickRH6 whole-genome radiation hybrid panel and chicken whole-genome shotgun sequence to map microsatellite markers from the turkey (Meleagris gallopavo). Thirty-three of the 41 markers typed on the RH panel had significant linkage to at least one other marker and 83 of 100 sequences returned significant BLAST similarities. Positioning of these markers provides additional sequence tagged sites in the turkey genome and increases the potential use of these markers for future genetic studies.