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A Fast Air-dry Dropping Chromosome Preparation Method Suitable for FISH in Plants
Published on: December 16, 2015
B chromosomes in popcorn (Zea mays L.).
G L Ricci1, N Silva, M S Pagliarini
1Departamento de Biologia Celular e Genética, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brasil.
Genetics and Molecular Research : GMR
|May 1, 2007
Summary
B chromosomes were identified in popcorn plants for the first time. Their presence did not impact the pairing or distribution of regular chromosomes during meiosis.
Area of Science:
- Plant genetics
- Cytology
- Chromosome research
Background:
- B chromosomes are extra chromosomes found in some species.
- Their behavior and effects vary across different plant groups.
- Popcorn (Zea mays everta) is a staple crop with limited research on B chromosomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first occurrence of B chromosomes in popcorn.
- To analyze the meiotic behavior of B chromosomes in popcorn.
- To investigate the impact of B chromosomes on the meiotic behavior of A chromosomes.
Main Methods:
- Cytological analysis of microsporogenesis.
- Examination of 72 popcorn plants across generations (S(0) to S(7)).
- Microscopic observation of chromosome pairing and behavior during meiosis.
Main Results:
- B chromosomes were identified in one S(0) popcorn plant.
- The number of B chromosomes ranged from two to three per anther.
- B chromosome meiotic behavior was consistent with other plant species.
- No significant effect of B chromosomes on chiasma frequency or distribution in A chromosomes was observed.
Conclusions:
- This study provides the first cytological evidence of B chromosomes in popcorn.
- B chromosomes in popcorn exhibit typical meiotic behavior.
- The presence of B chromosomes does not appear to disrupt normal meiotic processes in popcorn.
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