Analysis of mosquito genome structure using graphical genotyping

Abstract

AbstractRestriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) markers provide effective tools for establishing the genotype at many loci for individual mosquitoes. RFLP genotypes can be organized to provide information concerning parental origin or the allelic configuration of various chromosome segments. Whole genome genotypic information for individuals can be represented in a simple graphic format, termed graphical genotyping. In this study, RFLP markers were used to demonstrate the utility of using graphical genotyping to easily and quickly evaluate the entire genome of the mosquito Aedes aegypti. Two substrains selected for susceptibility and refractoriness, from a strain highly susceptible to the filarial worm parasite Brugia malayi, were compared. Graphical genotyping provided a mechanism to rapidly evaluate genome structure both within and between the two substrains with a simple visual analysis. This information was used in related studies to identify a new locus influencing B. malayi susceptibility in A. aegypti. Graphical genotyping also provided perspectives on some features of genome structure in A. aegypti. It suggested the presence and location of a genetic lethal on chromosome 3 and possible inversion polymorphisms associated with each of the three A. aegypti chromosomes.