The Mutator-Related Cy Transposable Element of Zea Mays L. Behaves as a near-Mendelian Factor

Abstract

The bz-rcy allele arose in a single gamete of the TEL (transposable-element laden) population, when the rcy receptor element inserted into the Bronze1 locus. This newly arisen receptor allele conditions a stable bronze kernel phenotype in the absence of the independently segregating regulatory element, Cy. In the presence of Cy, bz-rcy conditions fully colored spots on a bronze background. The spots represent clonal sectors arising from mutations of bz-rcy to Bz'. Although Cy exhibits genetic interactions with the Mutator system it differs from Mu-homologous elements in its near-Mendelian behavior which is in contrast to the non-Mendelian inheritance of Mutator and Mu-homologous elements. Evidence is presented which suggests that the timing and mode of Cy transposition differ from those of Mu1.