A vector for sequencing long (40-kb) DNA fragments

Abstract

An improved vector (pAA113M) has been constructed for sequencing long (40-kb) DNA fragments. The DNA fragment is cloned in the tet gene of the cosmid and subdivided into numerous overlapping segments by IS 1-promoted deletions. Plasmids bearing these deletions are fractionated by gel electrophoresis, and shortened further from the opposite end by treatment with specific restriction endonucleases. Thus, a series of short overlapping segments, spread across the entire length of the fragment, become fused to IS1. Each segment can then be sequenced by the dideoxy method using an IS1 primer. The plasmids can replicate either from their normal origin or, in the presence of a filamentous helper phage, from the M13 origin. Hence, each segment can be sequenced as either double-stranded DNA or single-stranded DNA. Sequences of IS1-promoted and restriction enzyme-generated deletions contain overlaps that can be used to assemble the complete 40-kb sequence.