Molecular cloning of human satellite DNA sequences and their use in detecting DNA polymorphism

A approximately 400 bp HaeIII human genomic satellite DNA band was cloned into pUC18 to construct a partial library. A fragment of bacteriophage M13 containing a sequence homologous to the human minisatellite core was cloned in pUC18 and was used as a probe to isolate a approximately 350 bp human satellite clone (pTRF5.6) from the partial library. Other clones from this library showed a wide variation in terms of size and hybridization to the pTRF5.6 clone. Human DNA from different individuals was digested with restriction enzymes, Southern transferred and probed with TRF5.6. Individual-specific complex pattern of DNA bands was produced. TRF5.6, therefore, could be useful as a probe for detecting genetic polymorphism.