Flow Sorting and Molecular Cytogenetic Identification of Individual Chromosomes of <em>Dasypyrum villosum L</em>. (<em>H. villosa</em>) by a Single DNA Probe

<div><p><em>Dasypyrum villosum</em> (L.) <em>Candargy</em> (sin. <em>Haynaldia villosa</em>) is an annual wild diploid grass species (2n = 2x = 14; genome VV) belonging to the <em>Poaceae</em> family, which is considered to be an important source of biotic and abiotic stress resistance genes for wheat breeding. Enhanced characterization of <em>D. villosum</em> chromosomes can facilitate exploitation of its gene pool and its use in wheat breeding programs. Here we present the cytogenetic identification of <em>D. villosum</em> chromosomes on slide by fluorescent <em>in situ</em> hybridization (FISH), with the GAA simple sequence repeat (SSR) as a probe. We also describe the isolation and the flow cytometric analysis of <em>D. villosum</em> chromosomes in suspension, resulting in a distinguished flow karyotype. Chromosomes were flow sorted into three fractions, according their DNA content, one of which was composed of a single type of chromosome, namely 6 V, sorted with over 85% purity. Chromosome 6 V is known to carry genes to code for important resistance and seed storage characteristics, and its isolation represents a new source of genetic traits and specific markers useful for wheat improvement.</p>