Genetic screen

Genetic screen is a procedure used to identify and select for individuals who possess a phenotype of interest in a mutagenized population. Hence, a genetic screen is a type of genetic analysis.

Overview

Genetic screens can provide important information about gene function, as well as genetic pathways that regulate a particular biological process. This is achieved by generating a library of mutations and then screening for mutants that have an altered phenotype. The mutations can be generated in a number of ways, including chemical mutagenesis, radiation, transposons, or RNA interference (RNAi).

Types of Genetic Screens

There are two main types of genetic screens: forward genetics and reverse genetics.

Forward Genetics

In a forward genetics screen, an investigator mutagenizes an organism, screens for alterations in a phenotype of interest, and then uses genetic mapping to identify the underlying gene or genes responsible for the phenotype.

Reverse Genetics

In a reverse genetics screen, an investigator starts with a gene of interest, mutates the gene, and then looks for alterations in the organism's phenotype.

Applications

Genetic screens have been used in a variety of organisms, including bacteria, yeast, worms, flies, zebrafish, and mice. They have been used to study a wide range of biological processes, including development, behavior, cell division, signal transduction, and disease.

See Also

• Genetics
• Genome
• Mutation
• Phenotype
• Genetic mapping
• RNA interference

References

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