Genomic organization of MADS-box genes
--Achim Fischer, Nikolai Baum, Heinz Saedler and Günter Theissen
We have developed a linker PCR procedure for preparing repetitive DNA-free probes from genomic clones, which is especially
efficient for members of gene families. Using this procedure as well as standard methods to prepare hybridization probes, chromosomal
map positions of MADS-box genes were determined in recombinant inbred lines. It appeared that MADS-box genes are strongly
dispersed throughout the maize genome. While there is evidence that this genomic distribution is representative for plant MADS-box
genes in general, the following two other observations seem to be Zea specific. First, at least one subfamily of MADS-box genes contains
line specific gene versions, which are present in some maize lines at certain chromosomal positions, but are absent there in other lines. The
members of that subfamily resemble transposable elements in many aspects. Second, the duplicate character of the maize genome, as
established with different marker systems, is also revealed by the finding of pairs of highly related MADS-box genes which are
accompanied by other duplicated markers. These findings have far-reaching implications for an understanding of the genomic organization
of MADS-box genes and the evolution of the MADS-box gene family.
Please Note: Notes submitted to the Maize Genetics Cooperation Newsletter may be cited only with consent of the authors
Return to the MNL 69 On-Line Index
Return to the Maize Newsletter Index
Return to the MaizeGDB Homepage