In the P element transformation procedure developed by Rubin and Spradling, the
ID: 175270 • Letter: I
Question
In the P element transformation procedure developed by Rubin and Spradling, the P element contains a transgene of choice (Gene X) plus a wild-type copy of the white gene (w+). Why is the w+allele included in the P element?
a. To learn whether the w+ allele has a functional promoter. b. As a genetic marker of P element integration into genomic DNA. c. To provide the transformed fly with antibiotic resistance. d. To permit homologous recombination with the genomic DNA. e. As a reporter protein to measure Gene X expression.Explanation / Answer
Answer :e P elements are only present in Drosophila and are the transposable elements which randomly integrate themselves into other parts of the genome. These P elements are of 2.0Kb length with the information for the transposase enzyme and sequences for attaching to the transposase enzyme thus ensuring that they are transported from one location to another which ofcourse is totally random. To use them as a tool in genetics the sequences on P element has to be kept apart for regulating transposition thus the recognising site for transposase enzyme is removed. And in the P plasmid there is a gene of interest (GOI) and white gene a wild type gene is often used as a reporter gene to detect the expression of the GOI.