Chromosomal localization of the glucose phosphate isomerase (GPI) gene in cattle, sheep and goat by in situ hybridization — chromosomal banding homology versus molecular conservation in Bovidae

A porcine genomic glucose phosphate isomerase (GPI) DNA probe was used for in situ hybridization with metaphase chromosomes in cattle, sheep and goat. The probe gave distinct signals on the q22→ proximal part of the q24 tegment of chromosome 18, 14 and 18 in cattle, sheep and goat, respectively, indicating the location of GPI gene. The three species belong to the family Bovidae and have high resemblance in chromosome banding patterns. The localization of the GPI locus to the same site on chromosomes with almost similar banding patterns suggests high degree of homology at these sites in the three species. Correlation between banding homologies and possible similarities at the molecular level is discussed.