Inactive ribosomal cistrons are spread throughout the B chromosomes of Rattus rattus (Rodentia, Muridae). Implications for their origin and evolution.

In-situ hybridization with a rDNA probe has demonstrated the presence of non-transcribed ribosomal genes in the B chromosomes of the black rat Rattus rattus. To test whether methylation of ribosomal DNA present in the B chromosomes could account for their inactivation, we performed in-situ digestions and Southern analyses of DNA digested with the isoschizomers MspI and HpaII. Our results suggest that the accessory chromosomes of this species have originated from one of the smaller NOR-carrying chromosome pairs. In the course of evolution, repetitive sequences invaded this supernumerary element and its ribosomal DNA content was dispersed throughout the chromosome and inactivated by heterochromatinization and methylation.