A novel phage λ replacement Cre-lox vector that has automatic subcloning capabilities

We have developed a novel phage λ replacement cloning vector, λpAn. λpAn allows one to automatically subclone the insert as a plasmid using the Cre-loxP site-specific recombination system. This eliminates the need to subclone insert fragments and permits the rapid structural analysis of insert DNA. λpAn is similar to other phage λ replacement vectors taking inserts ranging in size from 5 to 19 kb. We have placed the pyrG gene of Aspergillus nidulans on the vector as a nutritional selective marker for transformation. We have developed this vector as part of an overall plan to facilitate the cloning of dominant extragenic suppressor mutations from A. nidulans, but also know that it is a generally useful vector for the purposes of isolating genomic clones without the need to subclone from the phage λ vector.