Showing papers by "Kay E. Davies published in 1984"

Genetic mapping of the human X chromosome by using restriction fragment length polymorphisms.

Abstract: Using a human X chromosome-specific DNA library, we have found arbitrary single-copy DNA sequences that reveal useful restriction fragment length polymorphisms. The inheritance of these and other available polymorphic DNA markers has been studied in a series of unrelated three-generation families with large sibships. These families reveal parental phase and allow determination of recombination frequencies by counting recombinant and nonrecombinant chromosomes. The resulting genetic map indicates that the minimal distance from Xp22 to Xqter is 215 recombination units. The spacing of the marker loci is such that the majority of the loci on the X chromosome, including disease loci, will lie within 20 centimorgans of at least one of these loci.

Toward a complete linkage map of the human X chromosome: regional assignment of 16 cloned single-copy DNA sequences employing a panel of somatic cell hybrids.

Abstract: Closely linked restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) are potentially useful as diagnostic markers of genetic defects, and, in principle, RFLPs can be employed to construct a complete linkage map of the human genome. On the X chromosome, linkage studies are particularly rewarding because in man more than 120 X-linked genes are known. Thus, it is probable that each X-specific RFLP will be of use as a genetic marker of one or several X-linked disorders. To facilitate the search for closely linked RFLPs, we have regionally assigned 16 cloned DNA sequences to various portions of the human X chromosome, employing a large panel of somatic cell hybrids. These probes have been used to correlate genetic and physical distances on Xp, and it can be extrapolated from these data that the number and distribution of available Xq sequences will also suffice to span the long arm of the X chromosome.

Sex chromosome positions in human interphase nuclei as studied by in situ hybridization with chromosome specific DNA probes

Abstract: Summary. Two cloned repetitive DNA probes, pXBR and CY1, which bind preferentially to specific regions of the human X and Y chromosome, respectively, were used to study the distribution of the sex chromosomes in human lymphocyte nuclei by in situ hybridization experiments. Our data indicate a large variability of the distances between the sex chromosomes in male and female interphase nuclei. However, the mean distance observed between the X and Y chromosome was significantly smaller than the mean distance observed between the two X-chromosomes. The distribution of distances determined experimentally is compared with three model distributions of distances, and the question of a non-random distribution of sex chromosomes is discussed. Mathematical details of these model distributions are provided in an Appendix to this paper. In the case of a human translocation chromosome (Xqter---~ Xp22.2: :Yq11--->Yqter) contained in the Chinese hamster x human hybrid cell line 445 x 393, the binding sites of pXBR and CY1 were found close to each other in most interphase nuclei. These data demonstrate the potential use of chromosome-specific repetitive DNA probes to study the problem of interphase chromosome topography.

Use of a chromosome 21 cloned DNA probe for the analysis of non-disjunction in Down syndrome.

Abstract: A recombinant clone was isolated containing a sequence which occurs only on human chromosome 21 and defines a two-allele restriction fragment length polymorphism showing Mendelian inheritance. Forty seven percent of the London population are heterozygous for the polymorphism. The chromosomal location of the DNA sequence homologous to the probe was confirmed using rodent-human somatic cell hybrids. DNA from persons with Down syndrome and from their parents was analysed. It was possible to confirm trisomy 21 by dosage hybridisation to Southern blots, and to determine the origin of the supernumerary chromosome. The technique will be of use for determination of the paternal or maternal origin of nondisjunction in cases of Down syndrome which are not informative using existing markers.

A cytological map of the human X chromosome--evidence for non-random recombination.

Abstract: The cytological location of six cloned DNA sequences on the human X chromosome has been determined to a high resolution by direct hybridisation 'in situ' to metaphase chromosomes. Each locus has been identified using clones which also detect restriction fragment length polymorphisms by Southern hybridisation. The six loci identified are spaced along the chromosome from Xp22 to Xq28. By combining data obtained using this powerful sequence localisation technique with that from hybrid cell panels and from family studies, it is possible to compare physical and genetic distances, and to demonstrate that the frequency of reciprocal genetic exchange is not uniform along the chromosome length.

Clinical use of DNA markers linked to the gene for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Abstract: Seventy families with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) known to the Institute of Child Health fall into three categories with respect to potential linkage analysis with the X chromosome DNA markers RC8 and L1.28 that bridge the DMD gene. Families in which there is at least one obligatory female heterozygote (n = 13). Here 'prediction' and 'exclusion' of DMD gene transmission may be possible, the accuracy being dependent on the closeness of the linkage of the DNA marker(s) to the DMD gene; an illustrative case is reported. Families in which there is a single affected boy, who also has one or more healthy brothers (n = 26). Given an informative restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), the probability that the boy represents a new mutation can be reassessed; it is also possible to 'exclude' the DMD gene in a sister. Families with a single affected boy with no brother (n = 30). Here 'exclusion' of the DMD gene in a sister may be possible. Only in one family was there no possibility of useful linkage analysis. The linkage analysis required is described, and the need to check DMD families for informative RFLPs is stressed.

The positions of three restriction fragment length polymorphisms on chromosome 4 relative to known genetic markers.

Abstract: A library of DNA Sequences cloned in lambda phage has been prepared from DNA of chromosomes sorted by cytofluorimetry to give enrichment for chromosome 4. Five sequences have been assigned to chromosome 4 using a panel of hybrid cells, and each has been localised relative to a translocation breakpoint at 4q26. Each of the probes gives a Southern blot pattern which indicates that it does not cross-hybridise with sequences found on other human chromosomes. Three of the probes reveal frequent restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) and are useful for linkage analysis.

The implications of genetic variation in human pathology.

Abstract: Each human cell contains enough DNA to code for several million proteins. As a result of the technical advances which are broadly described as 'genetic engineering', each of these sequences can be isolated and purified in large amounts, free from those surrounding it in the genome. The sequences are not identical from person to person, nor even for each of a pair of chromosomes for a single person, but contain many variations. These include single base changes in both coding and non-coding regions, deletions, insertions and rearrangements. Using these changes as markers, the molecular geneticist can compare the structure and expression of normal and mutated human gene sequences and follow their inheritance in families.