AFLP TM technique used for genetic characterization of rat inbred strains

Abstract

The AFLP TM technique is a novel DNA technology which generates AFLP markers. The technique is based on the combined use of restriction fragments and selective PCR primers Because both the restriction fragments and the selective primers can be varied, many new genetic markers will become available. We have used four enzyme/primer combinations for the genetic characterization of 12 rat inbred strains. All these strains could be provided with their own unique genetic profile using these four combinations. No variation was found within the individuals of the same strain. This indicates that AFLP markers are stable and useful for genetic monitoring of strains and for linkage analysis.