The chromosomal distribution of cloned highly repetitive sequences from hexaploid wheat

Abstract

Two highly repetitive DNA sequences from Triticum aestivum were isolated and purified by molecular cloning. In situ hybridisation of these sequences to wheat chromosomes showed the sequence to be located predominantly at specific sites in the B genome and also chromosome 4A. Individual chromosomes could be identified by their patterns of labelling. Although one sequence was found to be mostly located close to centromeres and interstitially, and the other sequence mostly at telomeres, there was a good correlation between the distribution of these sequences and the distribution of heterochromatin as revealed by C-banding. In situ hybridisation of the two sequences to chromosomes of the related species, Secale cereaie and Hordeum vulgare showed a similar correlation between the location of highly repetitive sequences and heterochromatin. © 1982 The Genetical Society of Great Britain.