Is recombination mutagenic in Drosophila?
In this project, we will produce and analyze recombinant chromosomes resulting from exchanges between complementing lethal mutant alleles in the large dumpy gene of Drosophila melanogaster. Specifically, we will determine if mutations are generated at measurable frequencies at crossover sites within this gene, and, if so, the nature of the induced mutations. Secondly, we will determine if recombinational hotspots exist within the 100-plus kb encompassed by this gene and assess the sequence context at any such site or sites.
