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southern blot
So named for 'Earl Southern', an early pioneer in DNA technology.
Clinical significance:
- mutations such as deletions & insertions as well as mutations which alter the recognition site for the restriction enzyme may be detected.
- the southern blot also allows distinction of integrated versus episomal DNA (based upon gel migration).
- the technique is used to establish the presence of specific gene rearrangements within or between chromosomes as occurs in clones of malignant cells
Methods:
- detection of a specific DNA sequence immobilized on filter paper, generally in conjunction with electrophoresis
- radiolabeled complementary DNA is generally used in the detection process
- the assay requires digestion with specific endonucleases prior to electrophoresis
Turnaround time: 5-8 days
Related
electrophoresis
General
special chemistry test
References
- Medical Knowledge Self Assessment Program (MKSAP) 11, American
College of Physicians, Philadelphia 1998
- Clinical Guide to Laboratory Tests, 3rd ed. Teitz ed.,
W.B. Saunders, 1995