Microdissection based cloning of a translocation breakpoint in a human malignant melanoma

Chromosome translocations in human malignancies have identified the genomic location of several important growth-regulatory sequences (e.g., cellular oncogenes and suppressor genes). Melanomas are characterized by recurring chromosome alterations, including deletion or translocations of the long arm of chromosome 6 (6q). This report details our efforts to clone the t(1;6)(q21;q14) breakpoint in a malignant melanoma to further our understanding of the biology of these tumors. The strategy utilized combined microdissection of the translocation chromosome, development and characterization of a DNA microclone library, isolation of cosmids and YACs from the breakpoint region, ordering of clones by two-color metaphase/interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization, and finally, identification of a YAC spanning the translocation breakpoint. By analogy to other tumor systems, molecular examination of the chromosome 6 breakpoint may provide insight into the pathobiology of this important neoplasm.