Karyotype Evolution in Crucifers (Brassicaceae)
(project completed 2004)

Studying karyotype evolution in the mustard family (Brassicaceae)

The mustard family (Brassicaceae) includes more than 3,350 species distributed throughout the world. Chromosome numbers range from n=4 to n=128 including a high number of polyploid species (~50%). Brassicaceae is the only plant family in which comparative chromosome painting (CCP) has been feasible due to its unique genome structure, though an alternative painting strategy using chromosome-specific DNA clones is required. Karyological diversity and unique genome structure make Brassicaceae an attractive group for studying karyotype evolution within the phylogenetic framework. The project aims (i) to provide the first insights into karyotype evolution within Brassicaceae by identifying crucial chromosome rearrangements responsible for chromosome number variation, (ii) to compare the revealed chromosomal homeology patterns with phylogenetic distances within the family, and (iii) to get insights into the direction and timing of karyotype evolution within Brassicaceae.