article

Split-Marker Recombination for Efficient Targeted Deletion of Fungal Genes

Authors

• • Natalie L. Catlett
  • Syngenta Research and Technology
• • Bee-Na Lee
  • Syngenta Research and Technology
• • O. C. Yoder
  • Syngenta Research and Technology
• • B. Gillian Turgeon
  • Cornell University

Abstract

A commonly used method for fungal gene deletion is introduction of linear DNA consisting of a selectable marker gene flanked on both sides by short stretches of DNA that target a gene of interest (Wirsel et al 1996 Curr. Genet 29:241-249). Gene deletion in Cochliobolus heterostrophus and Gibberella zeae occurs efficiently with this approach. To facilitate deletion construct synthesis, we have applied the "split-marker” deletion strategy previously developed for Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Fairhead et al. 1996 Yeast 12:1439-57; Fairhead et al. 1998 Gene 223:33-46). Here, we describe both fusion PCR-based and plasmid-based deletion methods using this strategy with PEG-mediated protoplast transformation (Turgeon et al, 1985 Mol. Gen. Genet. 201:450-453). These methods are predicted to work well with any transformable fungus that undergoes homologous recombination between chromosomal and introduced DNA sequences.

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How to Cite: Catlett, N. L. , Lee, B. , Yoder, O. C. & Turgeon, B. G. (2003) “Split-Marker Recombination for Efficient Targeted Deletion of Fungal Genes”, Fungal Genetics Reports. 50(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.4148/1941-4765.1150