The transposable element inserts itself into different parts of the genome creating mutations. I Figure 1. Insertion of P-lacW near an enhancer results in detectable expression of the reporters. Searching for pattern and mutation in the Drosophila genome with a P-lacZ vector. The P-lacW construct we mobilized contains components useful in the cloning of DNA adjacent to the insertion site.
Restriction enzymes recognize and cut DNA at sequence specific sites.
Typically, a series of 6 nucleotide bases are recognized by a given restriction enzyme and the DNA is cut either within this specific sequence or immediately adjacent to the site. The mini- white gene is required for deposition of pigment in the adult eye. Enhancers usually function in a tissue specific and stage specific fashion. Thus, movement can be monitored by changes in eye color. After discovering the insertions in grooved and margin , molecular genetics allowed for the cloning and analysis of these two genes.