Details of Award

NERC Reference : NE/D521357/1

Genome evolution in the mustard family (Brassicaceae) analysed by comparative chromosome painting.

Principal Investigator:: Dr M Lysak, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, Jodrell Laboratory
Grant held at:: Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, Jodrell Laboratory

ENRIs:: Biodiversity
Science Topics:: Environmental Genomics; Population Genetics/Evolution; Systematics & Taxonomy

Abstract:: Changes of chromosomes and genomes over time can be studied by comparative chromosome painting. Chromosome painting refers to visualization of large chromosome regions/whole chromosomes of one species on chromosomes of other species. Therefore the fate of the same chromosome can be traced in different species over time. Among plants this technique is only feasible for the mustard family (Brassicaceae) using chromosome probes of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana (thale cress). In the proposed project, a robust infrastructure for comparative chromosome painting within the mustard family will be established. Painting probes for all Arabidopsis chromosomes will be used to label chromosomes of other species of the mustard family. These experiments will reveal chromosomal changes responsible for the deviating chromosome numbers between species. The identification of ancient and advanced chromosome sets will help to define general trends of chromosomal changes through time. Chromosomal data will be compared with species relationships based on DNA sequences (phylogenetic trees). The results obtained during the project will further our understanding of the role of chromosomal changes in the origin of new plant species.

Authorised funds only

This grant award has a total value of £49,880

Total - T&S	Total - Staff	Total - Other Costs	Total - Indirect Costs
£304	£27,014	£10,135	£12,426

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