2020 Research in the Capitol
Presentation Type
Open Access Poster Presentation
Keywords
Mitochondrial DNA; Geomydoecus aurei--Genome mapping;
Abstract
The mitochondrion, an organelle responsible for generating cellular energy, is unlike the majority of organelles in animal cells. Because of its symbiotic origins, the mitochondrion contains its own genetic information (mtDNA) that is predominantly maternally inherited. In most animals, the mitochondrial DNA is arranged in one circular chromosome containing 13 protein coding genes, 22 tRNAs and two rRNAs. In Geomydoecus aurei, a chewing louse, these same genes have been disbursed among at least 13 independent minicircle chromosomes. We have worked to map this atypical genome to gain insights into its development and to further understanding of genomic rearrangements in this important genetic material. Identification and characterization of the unique nature of this mtDNA may lead to a better understanding of many debilitating disorders associated with mitochondrial dysfunction.
Start Date
24-3-2020 11:00 AM
End Date
24-3-2020 2:30 PM
Event Host
University Honors Programs, Iowa Regent Universities
Faculty Advisor
James Demastes
Department
Department of Biology
Copyright
©2020 Ashley Campbell, Dino Bolic, James W. Demastes, and Theresa A. Spradling
File Format
application/pdf
Recommended Citation
Campbell, Ashley L.; Bolic, Dino; Demastes, James W.; and Spradling, Theresa A., "Characterization of a New mtDNA Minicircle in a Chewing Louse, Geomydoecus aurei" (2020). Research in the Capitol. 3.
https://scholarworks.uni.edu/rcapitol/2020/all/3
Characterization of a New mtDNA Minicircle in a Chewing Louse, Geomydoecus aurei
The mitochondrion, an organelle responsible for generating cellular energy, is unlike the majority of organelles in animal cells. Because of its symbiotic origins, the mitochondrion contains its own genetic information (mtDNA) that is predominantly maternally inherited. In most animals, the mitochondrial DNA is arranged in one circular chromosome containing 13 protein coding genes, 22 tRNAs and two rRNAs. In Geomydoecus aurei, a chewing louse, these same genes have been disbursed among at least 13 independent minicircle chromosomes. We have worked to map this atypical genome to gain insights into its development and to further understanding of genomic rearrangements in this important genetic material. Identification and characterization of the unique nature of this mtDNA may lead to a better understanding of many debilitating disorders associated with mitochondrial dysfunction.
