Identification of Porto-1, a new repeated sequence that localises close to the centromere of chromosome 2 of Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract.

We have used the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique to search the Drosophila melanogaster genome for the presence of sequences with homology to mammalian and yeast centromeric DNA. Using primers based on the human CENP-B box present in α-satellite DNA and part of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae CDEIII centromeric sequence, a number of specific DNA fragments were amplified from total genomic DNA. In situ hybridization to polytene and mitotic chromosomes showed these fragments to localise to centromeric and pericentromeric regions. Direct cloning of the amplified fragments into conventional plasmids proved unsuccessful. However, a recombinant P1 clone containing D. melanogaster genomic DNA that supports PCR amplification by the primers was identified. Molecular characterisation of this clone revealed a DNA fragment that localises primarily to the centromere of chromosome 2. Sequence analysis indicated that this fragment contains at least four different repeats, including Rsp, transposable elements, Bari-1 and a new AT-rich repeated sequence that we have designated Porto-1. Detailed fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis shows that Porto-1 is localised very close to the primary constriction of chromosome 2. Sequence analysis suggests that this repeat was specifically amplified by our primers, although limited homology to the CENP-B box or CDEIII elements was found. In situ hybridization to a number of Drosophila species shows Porto-1 to be present only in D. melanogaster.