Molecular Genetic Linkage Mapping in Tribolium Beetles

 

Ann Yezerski

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2006, Volume 27

Abstract

Genetic linkage mapping is often taught using sex-linked traits in Drosophila. Modern linkage mapping rarely uses phenotypes. This exercise is designed to demonstrate more realistically how linkage maps are created today. The exercise uses RI lines of Tribolium beetles along with RAPD-PCR to create a large dataset of molecular markers that is then analyzed by a computer program to determine linkage. In the process, students learn how a DNA extraction is done, how large numbers of RAPD-PCR reactions can be set-up efficiently, how to run an agarose gel, and how to score and analyze molecular data to create a map.

Keywords:  Tribolium, linkage mapping, RAPD-PCR, recombinant inbred lines

Virginia Tech (2005)