LINKAGE MAP OF SYRIAN-HAMSTER WITH RESTRICTION LANDMARK GENOMIC SCANNING

We have constructed the linkage map with precise genetic analysis of t he Syrian hamster, Mesocricetus auratus, according to the restriction landmark genomic scanning (RLGS) spot mapping method. Although only 3. 2-6.6% of the total RLGS spots between the two strains, ACN and BIO 14 .6, showed genetic variance, 572 loci were found to be polymorphic. Ou t of 569 RLGS loci and 3 other loci, 531 were mapped with the backcros s (ACN x BIO 14.6) F-1 x BIO 14.6. The cumulative map was 1111.6 cM, i ndicating that the spots/loci are located throughout the genome at 1.9 4 cM intervals on average. Thus, RLGS provides us with a rapid tool to construct the genetic map of any species, even if it has less genetic variation.