High Resolution Gene Mapping Validates Integrity of Stem Cell Genomes

Researchers working with human embryonic stem cells and other types of pluripotent stem cells that grow in cell cultures for extended periods of time will benefit from a gene mapping service that offers high resolution monitoring of the genome at a cost comparable to traditional karyotyping.

Ambry Genetics (Aliso Viejo, CA, USA), a company specializing in genetic testing, has introduced their StemArray service. StemArray, which is based on array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) technology, offers higher resolution (44 K) gene mapping as compared to the five MB for standard karyotyping.

This higher resolution allows the detection of smaller duplications and deletions with the possibility of single gene resolution in pluripotent and cancer associated regions. The service has a turnaround time of two weeks, and pricing is comparable to karyotyping cost.

"As human stem cells begin to make their way into clinical studies, it is essential that the cell lines be thoroughly characterized," said Dr. Aaron Elliott, head of genomics research and development at Ambry Genetics. "Using the StemArray scientists will not only detect the extremely large copy number changes that can be found by karyotype, but also identify very small aberrations that occur during culture that could decrease the reproducibility and reliability of experimental data."

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