SGER: The Fate of Duplicated Genes in an Invasive Polyploid Species

Chico State Enterprises, Chico CA

Investigators

Abstract

Homeologous genes, or those genes duplicated by polyploid events, may be expressed at levels reflective of their duplication, or their expression may be changed dramatically. The techniques proposed here have been very recently described with the application toward the differentiation of gene expression in allopolyploid species. Specific questions to be addressed to assess the dynamics of the Waxy gene in the allopolyploid invasive species, Spartina anglica are: 1.) Are there sequence differences between the different copies of Waxy in: Spartina anglica; its diploid progenitors S. maritima, S. alterniflora; the sterile F1 hybrid from which S. anglica arose, S. x townsendii; and the newly discovered F1 hybrid, S. x neyrautii? 2.) Does variation in expression of the Waxy locus vary between Spartina anglica, its parental species or diploid ancestors? 3.) Is there differential variation of Waxy within Spartina anglica? A combination of PCR, cloning and sequencing of DNA and single stranded conformation polymorphisms (SSCP) of cDNA will provide more precision than previously used techniques to provide data on genic organization and function in an invasive allopolyploid species. Direct sequencing of RT-PCR products will be performed for confirmation of all results. The analyses performed will provide insight into the dynamics and subsequent genotypic and phenotypic changes due to the hybridization between historically allopatric taxa, homeologous genes, and allopolyploidization.