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rough deal: a gene required for proper mitotic segregation in Drosophila

R E Karess1, D M Glover

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, New York University Medical Center, New York 10016.

The Journal of Cell Biology
|December 1, 1989
PubMed

Insights

Mutations in the rough deal (rod) gene in Drosophila melanogaster disrupt chromosome segregation during mitosis, leading to aneuploidy and developmental defects. This suggests rod is crucial for ensuring accurate sister chromatid separation.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Cell Biology
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • Accurate chromosome segregation is essential for cell division.
  • Errors in chromosome transmission lead to aneuploidy and developmental abnormalities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify and characterize genes involved in chromosome segregation in Drosophila melanogaster.
  • To understand the molecular mechanisms underlying faithful chromosome transmission during mitosis.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and characterization of five mutant alleles of the rough deal (rod) gene.
  • Microscopic analysis of mitotic abnormalities in neuroblasts of homozygous mutant larvae.
  • Assessment of cuticular defects and fertility in surviving homozygous adults.

Main Results:

  • Mutations in rough deal (rod) cause high frequencies of aneuploid cells and abnormal anaphase figures during mitosis.
  • Homozygous adults exhibit cuticular defects and sterility, with common meiocyte aneuploidy.
  • Observed abnormalities suggest a failure in sister chromatid release mechanisms.

Conclusions:

  • The rough deal (rod) gene is critical for ensuring faithful chromosome transmission during mitosis in Drosophila.
  • Disruption of rod function leads to mitotic errors, aneuploidy, and subsequent developmental defects.
  • The rod gene likely plays a role in the mechanism that regulates sister chromatid separation.

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