Gene mapping in domestic animals

Abstract

Gene maps are constructed by the synthesis of data obtained by different methods which include family analyses, somatic cell hybridization, direct mapping of DNA segments by Southern blot analysis and in situ hybridization to fixed metaphase chromosomes. Gene mapping has already contributed significantly to a better understanding of the mammalian genome, in particular the human genome but the gene maps of economically important domestic species are not well characterized. The application of somatic cell genetics and recombinant DNA methodologies now allows rapid progress to be made in the construction of detailed gene maps for domestic animals. Such gene maps will serve as tools for selection in applied breeding and for the analysis of polygenic traits.