southern blot

Introduction

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

More general terms

• special chemistry test

Additional terms

• electrophoresis