Macrocyst Genetics of Dictyostelium

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The project is to optimize conditions for germination of the sexually formed macrocysts of Dictyostelium discoideum. We plan to 1) Screen wild isolates for pairs making macrocysts which germinate quickly and at a high rate. 2) Select mutant strains which increase germination. 3) Accelerate germination with enzymes which digest the macrocyst wall and with pheromonal factors from other germinating macrocysts. The goal is to achieve at least 10% germination of macrocysts after 6 weeks of dormancy, a rate which has proved adequate for routine use with other species. Genetic experiments which use macrocyst system will not be attempted during the period of this project. Dictyostelium has been used for studies in development for a number of years. But its potential has never been realized because rapid genetic methods for obtaining high-frequency recombination within a linkage group do not exist. The successful completion of this project would be of great service to the scientific community and a contribution to the development of Dictyostelium as an experimental genetic system.