Sequencing and characterization of the 16,019 bp Drosophila yakuba mitochondrial genome. Drosophila yakuba

The mitochondrial genome of Drosophila yakuba is a 16019 bp molecule that contains the genes for two rRNAs, 22 tRNAs, six identified proteins [cytochrome b, cytochrome c oxidase subunits I, II, and III (COI-III), and ATPase subunits 6 and 8] and seven presumptive proteins (URF1-6 and URF4L). In the D. yakuba mitochondrial genetic code, AGA, ATA, and TGA specify serine, isoleucine, and tryptophan, respectively. Studies show that A and T nucleotides are favored at all locations in the mtDNA genome where these nucleotides are compatible with function. In addition, the order of genes varies from that seen in mammalian mtDNA genomes.