Abstract: A method for determining gender from a human DNA sample. The loci of Alu element insertion is selected, amplified and evaluated in terms of size of the fragment. The gender assay utilizes AluSTXa for the X chromosome, AluSTYa for the Y chromosome, or both AluSTXa and AluSTYa, to reduce the possibility of error to a negligible quantity. The inserted chromosome yields a large fragment when the homologous region is amplified. The males are distinguished as having two DNA amplicons present, while females have only a single amplicon. The kit adapted for carrying out the method includes a pair of primers to amplify the locus and optionally polymerase chain reaction regents.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 10, 2006
Date of Patent:
October 7, 2008
Assignees:
Reliagene Technologies Inc., Board of Supervisors of Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Medical College
Inventors:
Sudhir K. Sinha, Dale J. Hedges, Mark A. Batzer