Slide 7

Genome-Wide Profiling: Polymorphism Analysis

Another approach is called polymorphism analysis. Polymorphism analysis is used to find variation in genetic sequence across the genome; some tests look for variation in single base pairs (single-nucleotide polymorphisms), whereas others look for tandem repeats (simple sequence repeats) or insertions of several telltale bases (restriction-fragment length polymorphisms).

Once sequence polymorphisms that are potentially associated with cancer are identified, these must be validated through further research in independent populations. Polymorphism data will be used in conjunction with other genetic, genomic, and clinical information.