Strategies and Technologies for Comparative Gene Mapping

Abstract

Comparative gene mapping in mammals, the taxonomic class to which, has its roots early in the history of animal genetics. The only limitations to comparative mapping, therefore, are the amenability of various species to genomic mapping and the assessment of homology of the genes being mapped. The primary reason for comparative gene mapping is to identify the boundaries of genomic conservation between evolutionary divergent species. Comparative gene mapping depends entirely on the accurate assessment of homology between genes of different species. The increased use of heterologous probes has had a major impact on comparative gene mapping. In addition to the assessment of gene homology, comparative gene mapping requires mapping protocols compatible with the species under investigation. Biochemical and molecular gene markers are excellent tools for establishing gene homology if the appropriate criteria are met. Genes can be ordered by the relative frequencies at which markers are cotransferred from the irradiated donor line to the established rodent recipient line.