The overall objective of the proposed work is to improve our understanding of the evolution of a family of "jumping genes" called "P elements" in Drosophila fruit flies, with particular emphasis on the mode and frequency of mating-independent, horizontal transfer of these elements between evolutionary lineages of the flies. One major focus is to investigate whether a species of parasitic mites can act as a vector for interspecific transfer of P element genetic material. A second major focus is the comparison of P elements from a representative sample of Drosophila species, in order to study the frequency and pattern of P element transfer during the evolution of this family of flies. The methods to be employed rely heavily on modern molecular genetic techniques. Mixed species population cages will be used for the study of interspecies transfer. The proposed work has potential significance for better understanding the origin and evolution of jumping genes and the evolutionary significance of horizontal transfer. It may also provide fascinating new insights into molecular coevolutionary relationships between parasites and their hosts.
