Related Experiment Videos
The MEV mouse linkage testing stock: mapping 30 novel proviral insertions and establishment of an improved stock
B A Taylor1, L Rowe, D A Grieco
1Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609.
Abstract:
Continuing efforts to improve the MEV linkage testing stock are described. The MEV stock carries multiple copies of the ecotropic murine leukemia virus genome. These proviruses are individually detectable in Southern blots, making it possible to follow the segregation of many loci simultaneously in genetic crosses. About 50 novel proviral insertions have been detected in this stock and propagated to homozygosity in a number of sublines. Many of the proviruses were first observed in individuals that were somatic and germinal mosaics. From the minimum frequency of primary transmission of proviruses to offspring, it is estimated that about 7 embryonic cells contribute to the pool of germ cells that populate the gonads. Thirty of the proviruses have been mapped to 15 different chromosomes in intercrosses between MEV sublines and the inbred Mus musculus castaneus strain CAST/Ei or in other crosses. Mapped insertions appear to be randomly distributed among chromosomes, but possibly clustered within chromosomes. Several of the mapped insertions are located such that their inclusion in improved MEV stocks would permit the screening of additional regions of the genome. An improved MEV stock that is homozygous for 12 proviruses on 11 chromosomes, including novel insertions on Chromosomes 17 and 19 is described. The stock also carries four dominant visible markers on 4 additional chromosomes. This stock is estimated to sweep approximately 68% of the autosomal genome.
Insights
Researchers enhanced the murine leukemia virus (MEV) linkage testing stock by identifying and mapping new proviral insertions. This improved stock facilitates comprehensive genomic screening and analysis.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The murine leukemia virus (MEV) linkage testing stock contains multiple copies of the ecotropic murine leukemia virus genome.
- These proviruses are detectable via Southern blots, enabling simultaneous tracking of multiple loci during genetic crosses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe ongoing efforts to enhance the MEV linkage testing stock.
- To report the detection and propagation of novel proviral insertions.
- To map these insertions and develop an improved MEV stock for broader genomic screening.
Main Methods:
- Detection and propagation of novel proviral insertions in MEV stock sublines.
- Analysis of somatic and germinal mosaics to identify new proviruses.
- Genetic crosses between MEV sublines and Mus musculus castaneus strain CAST/Ei for chromosomal mapping.
- Estimation of embryonic cell contribution to germ cells based on provirus transmission frequency.
Main Results:
- Approximately 50 novel proviral insertions were identified and propagated to homozygosity.
- Thirty proviruses were mapped to 15 different chromosomes, showing random distribution but potential clustering.
- An improved MEV stock was developed, homozygous for 12 proviruses on 11 chromosomes, including new insertions on Chromosomes 17 and 19.
- The improved stock includes four dominant visible markers on additional chromosomes, covering an estimated 68% of the autosomal genome.
Conclusions:
- The enhanced MEV stock significantly improves the capability for screening large portions of the genome.
- Novel proviral insertions and mapping data contribute to a more refined genetic tool.
- The developed stock provides a valuable resource for genetic research and analysis.