Mariner transposase-like sequences from the Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor

Transposable genetic elements are assumed to be a feature of all eukaryotic genomes. They can serve as vectors in gene transfer systems and as mutagenic agents for isolation of genes. Until recently their identification has been primarily limited to organisms subjected to extensive genetic or molecular study. The Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor (Say), is an agriculturally important pest of wheat, Triticum aestivum L., in the United States and other parts of the world. We assessed the presence of mariner transposase-like sequences in M. destructor by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay designed to detect conserved regions of the mariner transposase gene. DNA sequence analysis of PCR products revealed sequences with similarities to putative mariner transposase gene subfamilies from Drosophila mauritiana and horn fly, Haematobia irritans. DNA gel blot analyses indicated sequences hybridizing to the mariner transposase-like PCR clones occur at a moderate to low copy number in M. destructor. Results suggest the presence of an endogenous mobile-element system in M. destructor, which might be developed into a gene transfer system or serve in mapping genes.