The Identification Of Recombinant Plants Between Molecular Markers Linked To The Ripening-Inhibitor (rin) And Macrocalyx (mc) Genes In Tomato - Part Of A Map-Based Cloning Approach To Locating Genes Of Interest

Abstract

The tightly linked ripening-inhibitor (rin) and macro calyx (mc) loci represent two important developmental genes in tomato fruit ripening and flower development, respectively. Map-based cloning experiments are currently underway to isolate cDNA clones that may correspond to the wild-type homologs of these loci. The first step to confirming possible candidate clones is the complete genetic segregation in every instance with the target genes in a segregating population. For map-based cloning, the only area of interest in the genome is the immediate area of the target genes. Preliminary screening of the segregating population for those individuals with recombinations between genetic markers flanking the target loci can eliminate the need for screening large populations once candidate cDNA clones have been identified. Finding these recombinant plants is one part of a continuing effort by the Giovannoni lib to identify and clone the rin and mc loci. Once cloned, these genes will serve as tools to both understand and manipulate the ripening process in tomato and additional fruit crop species.