Physical mapping of the mouse genome

Approaches to lipid metabolism gene identification and characterization in the postgenomic era

The availability of genomic resources has already had a tremendous impact on biomedical research. In this review, we describe how whole genome sequence and high-throughput functional genomics projects have facilitated the identification and characterization of important genes in lipid metabolism and disease. We review key approaches and lipid genes identified in the first years of this century and discuss how genomic resources are likely to streamline gene identification and functional characterization in the future.

Genetic mapping of the mouse genome

This article provides an introduction to genetic mapping for scientists who wish to map specific genes or mutant phenotypes in the mouse. The basic principles of genetic mapping and the different types of genetic markers available are described in the first two sections of the chapter. The theoretical and empirical principles necessary to consider when designing mapping experiments are reviewed in the third section. Protocols for mapping phenotypic traits and cloned genes are detailed in the fourth and fifth sections.

Positional cloning and gene identification

After genetic mapping and physical representation of a particular genomic region containing the gene underlying a particular Mendelian trait, a successful positional cloning strategy depends on the efficient detection and analysis of genes in the critical interval. Several gene detection strategies are presently available to compile an inventory of genes from large genomic regions. Here, the principle of these methods is briefly reviewed and their relative value for positional cloning projects compared.