Rapid creation of forward-genetics tools for C. briggsae using TALENs: lessons for nonmodel organisms.

ABSTRACT: Although evolutionary studies of gene function often rely on RNA interference, the ideal approach would use reverse genetics to create null mutations for cross-species comparisons and forward genetics to identify novel genes in each species. We have used transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) to facilitate both approaches in Caenorhabditis nematodes. First, by combining golden gate cloning and TALEN technology, we can induce frameshifting mutations in any gene. Second, by combining this approach with bioinformatics we can predict and create the resources needed for forward genetic analysis in species like Caenorhabditis briggsae. Although developing genetic model organisms used to require years to isolate marker mutations, balancers, and tools, with TALENs, these reagents

SUBMITTER: Wei Q 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3907053 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature