Microsatellite Repeat Variation Within the y1 Gene of Maize and Teosinte

Abstract

We have sequenced a (CCA)n microsatellite-containing region of the y1 gene from 11 different lines of maize and 6 teosinte species, subspecies, or varieties. The (CCA)n microsatellite was found to vary in repeat number from 3 to 11. In addition, a pentanucleotide repeat adjacent to the trinucleotide microsatellite exhibits sequence and repeat number variation. Therefore, the (CCA)n microsatellite, as well as the sequence directly adjacent to it, exhibit variability in both maize and teosinte and could potentially serve as molecular markers in mapping or breeding studies.