Radiation hybrid mapping

Definition

Radiation hybrid mapping is a technique used to determine the order and distance between genes on chromosomes. It involves fragmenting DNA using radiation and then analyzing which fragments contain specific markers or genes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Radiation hybrid mapping uses ionizing radiation to break DNA into fragments.
2. The method relies on integrating these fragments into a host cell line, typically rodent cells.
3. Markers are identified by determining which DNA fragments were retained in the host cells after integration.
4. It is highly useful for constructing high-resolution maps of human and other genomes.
5. This technique can map both coding and non-coding regions of the genome.

Review Questions

• What type of radiation is used in radiation hybrid mapping?
• How does radiation hybrid mapping help in determining gene order on chromosomes?
• Why are rodent cells commonly used as hosts in this technique?

Related terms

Genetic Mapping: A process used to determine the location of genes on a chromosome.

Physical Mapping: A method that determines the physical distance between genetic markers on a chromosome.

Linkage Analysis: A genetic analysis technique that looks for co-segregation of traits within families to identify gene locations.