Hart JR, Johnson MD, Barton JK
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2004 Sep 28;101(39):14040-4. doi: 10.1073/pnas.0406169101. Epub 2004 Sep 21.
Single-nucleotide polymorphisms are the largest source of genetic variation in humans. We report a method for the discovery of single- nucleotide polymorphisms within genomic DNA. Pooled genomic samples are amplified, denatured, and annealed to generate mismatches at polymorphic DNA sites. Upon photoactivation, these DNA mismatches are then cleaved site-specifically by using a small molecular probe, a bulky metallointercalator, Rhchrysi or Rhphzi. Fluorescent labeling of the cleaved products and separation by capillary electrophoresis permits rapid identification with single-base resolution of the single-nucleotide polymorphism site. This method is remarkably sensitive and minor allele frequencies as low as 5% can be readily detected.