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Progress towards cloning the cystic fibrosis gene
L C Tsui1, J M Rommens, J Burns
1Department of Genetics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Researchers identified 28 new DNA markers to map the cystic fibrosis (CF) gene on chromosome 7. This fine genetic mapping advances the search for the specific gene responsible for CF and aids in developing targeted therapies.
Area of Science:
- Human Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Cystic Fibrosis (CF) locus is localized to chromosome 7q31.
- MET and D7S8 are closely linked markers, but their precise positions relative to CF require further refinement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a high-resolution genetic and physical map of the 7q31 region.
- To identify additional DNA markers for precise localization of the CF gene.
- To facilitate the identification of the gene responsible for cystic fibrosis.
Main Methods:
- Screening of a chromosome-7-specific library using DNA hybridization.
- Utilizing somatic cell hybrids containing specific portions of human chromosome 7.
- Isolation of 28 new DNA probes from the 7q31 region.
Main Results:
- Successfully isolated 28 novel DNA markers from the 7q31 chromosomal band.
- These new markers, along with existing ones (MET, D7S8, D7S13, D7S16), contribute to a refined map of the CF region.
- The developed map aids in bridging the physical distance between MET and D7S8.
Conclusions:
- The newly identified markers provide a detailed genetic and physical map of the chromosomal region surrounding the cystic fibrosis locus.
- This enhanced mapping facilitates chromosome walking strategies to isolate and examine candidate genes for CF.
- Advances in mapping are crucial steps towards identifying the cystic fibrosis gene and understanding its function.