Collaborative Research: Comprehensive Molecular, Genetic and Cytogenetic Analysis of Transposon-Induced Chromosomal Rearrangements in Maize

合作研究：转座子诱导玉米染色体重排的分子、遗传和细胞遗传学综合分析转座子是可以在基因组中从一个位点移动（转座）到另一个位点的DNA片段。 有时，独立的转座子的末端会试图转座;这种交替的转座反应会导致染色体的大规模重排。 这个项目的目的是确定哪些转座子的排列可以引起替代性转座反应，以及可以产生哪些类型的染色体畸变。 这项研究将使用玉米（玉米）进行，这是一种理想的模型系统，其中转座事件可以通过籽粒颜色的变化来检测。 这些结果应该与其他生物体有关，包括人类。 该项目的结果将有助于阐明转座因子生物学的基本原理及其对基因组结构和表达的影响：首先，这项研究将导致对转座因子在基因组多样化和物种形成中的潜在作用的更好理解。 其次，这些结果有助于解释自发性染色体畸变的起源，这些染色体畸变通常与某些人类遗传疾病（包括癌症）有关。 第三，研究结果可能为发展研究真核细胞染色体的新方法提供基础。 该项目的一个重要方面是使用互补方法来连接分子和染色体水平的结构。 此外，学生将通过研究项目和研究人员提供的讲习班接受染色体分析方法的培训。

Collaborative Research: Comprehensive Molecular, Genetic and Cytogenetic Analysis of Transposon-Induced Chromosomal Rearrangements in MaizeTransposons are segments of DNA that can move (transpose) from one site to another in the genome. Sometimes the ends of separate transposons will attempt to transpose; this alternative transposition reaction can cause large rearrangements of chromosomes. The aims of this project are to determine which arrangements of transposons can give rise to alternative transposition reactions, and what kinds of chromosomal aberrations can be produced. The research will be conducted using maize (corn), an ideal model system in which transposition events can be detected by changes in kernel color. The results should be relevant to other organisms, including humans. The results of this project will help to elucidate basic principles of the biology of transposable elements and their impact on genome structure and expression: First, this research will lead to a greater understanding of the potential role of transposable elements in genome diversification and speciation. Second, the results could help to explain the origin of spontaneous chromosomal aberrations that are often associated with certain human genetic diseases including cancer. Third, the results may provide the basis for development of new methods for studying eukaryotic chromosomes. An important aspect of this project is the use of complementary approaches to bridge the molecular and chromosomal levels of structure. In addition, students will be trained in methods of chromosome analysis through the research project and workshops offered by the investigators.