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Extensive chromosome aberrations in Spiroplasma citri Strain BR3
1Department of Plant Pathology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater 74078, USA.
Biochemical Genetics
|August 1, 1996
Summary
Spiroplasma citri strain BR3 exhibits significant genome instability. Genetic variations and large-scale DNA changes were observed in derivatives maintained under different conditions, impacting insect transmissibility.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Plant Pathology
- Genomics
Background:
- Spiroplasma citri is a plant pathogen transmitted by insects.
- Understanding genetic variation in Spiroplasma citri is crucial for disease management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize genetic variations in Spiroplasma citri strain BR3 under different maintenance conditions.
- To investigate the impact of these variations on insect transmissibility.
Main Methods:
- Pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) for genome mapping.
- DNA hybridization for analyzing genetic changes.
- Comparison of original isolate (BR3-3X) with derivatives (BR3-T and BR3-G).
Main Results:
- Both BR3-T and BR3-G showed extensive changes in chromosomal DNA restriction patterns and increased genome size compared to BR3-3X.
- BR3-T maintained genetic organization similar to the parent strain.
- BR3-G exhibited a large chromosomal inversion and deletions, losing insect transmissibility.
Conclusions:
- Spiroplasma citri demonstrates remarkable genome instability.
- Environmental conditions and maintenance methods significantly influence Spiroplasma citri genome structure and function.
- Genome alterations in BR3-G, including inversions and deletions, are linked to the loss of insect transmission.