Mitochondrial DNA from Podospora anserina : IV. The large ribosomal RNA gene contains two long intervening sequences

We have examined the structure of the rRNA genes from the mitochondrial genome of Podospora anserina. Using R-loop analysis, nuclease protection experiments, and Southern blot hybridization analysis we have observed two intervening sequences (IVS) in the large rRNA gene, and none in the small rRNA gene. the IVS sequences are 1.65 kbp and 2.73 kbp long, and the larger of the two is in the position of the conserved IVS found in the mitochondrial genomes of other fungi. We have detected precursor transcripts for the large rRNA, and these data support the observation of two IVS in this gene. We also note that the large and small rRNA genes are separated by approximately 6 kbp of DNA.