26th Annual Student Research Conference
Structure and transcription of maize genes that exhibit B73/Mo17 presence-absence variation
Lauren A. Choate
Dr. Brent Buckner, Faculty Mentor
Array-based comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) experiments (Springer et al. 2009) have revealed levels of genic presence-absence variation (PAV) that are unprecedented among higher eukaryotes. PAV identified by CGH does not reveal the length and location of the absence, or the impact on transcription, relative to an intact gene. By studying a small number of genes classified as exhibiting PAV, we hope to identify structural and transcriptional commonalities which will allow for a deeper understanding of the nature of the absence and its variation among maize haplotypes. To elucidate the prevalence of PAV beyond B73 and Mo17, PCR was performed across the length of several genes for seven haplotypes. In addition, we have used RNA-Seq analyses from several developmental stages to characterize the level of transcription in PAV genes from B73 and Mo17. This study was largely conducted during investigative laboratory experiences in introductory and advanced undergraduate genetics courses.
Keywords: presence-absence variation, RNA-Seq, structural diversity
Topic(s):Biology
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 2-5
Location: GEO
Time: 3:30