Mapping mutations in C. elegans.

Abstract At present, the principal goal of mapping is to establish correspondence between a mutation identified via a change in phenotype and an alteration in the DNA sequence of the genome. Recent advances in molecular biology and bioinformatics have greatly facilitated this procedure, but certain standard methods, such as the three-factor cross, continue to be extremely useful for high-resolution mapping and separation of tightly linked mutations. This chapter provides both general guidelines and specific procedures for the characterization and mapping of newly isolated mutations in C. elegans . Procedures are included for dealing with mutations that cannot be propagated as homozygotes, as well as mutations that can only be scored in specialized genetic backgrounds, for example, suppressor, enhancer, and modifier mutations.