Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers

Abstract

Williams [14] and Welsh and McClelland [13] demonstrated the utility of single short oligonucleotide primers of arbitrary sequence for the amplification of DNA segments distributed randomly throughout the genome. Welsh and McClelland showed that the pattern of amplified bands could be used for genome fingerprinting [13] and Williams et al. [ 14] showed that the differences (polymorphisms) in the pattern of bands amplified from genetically distinct individuals behaved as mendelian genetic markers (named RAPDs, for Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA). Well-saturated maps of the Arabidopsis [11] and pine [4] genomes have been constructed using RAPD technology. A single set of arbitrary-sequence 10-mers may be used for mapping or fingerprinting any species. The many advantages of RAPD markers over RFLPs or isozyme markers accelerated the adoption of RAPD technology for the construction of genetic maps, fingerprinting, and population genetic studies [6]. Current reviews of the applications of RAPD technology are available [ 10, 12].