DYZ1 array, an important tool to differentiate between somatic and germline DNA of an individual using capillary electrophoresis

Sandeep Kumar Yadav and Sher Ali *

Molecular Genetics Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi-

110067, India.

*To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: 011 26703753; Fax: 011 26742125; Email: alisher@nii.ac.in; sheralib5@hotmail.com

Abstract Theoretically DNA must be identical in somatic and germ cells of an individual but the fact is, many changes occur after birth due to the influence of environmental factors on DNA dynamics. The cellular machinery which protects cellular DNA from environmental factors works differently in somatic and germ cells. Thus, leads to the accumulation of different set of changes in DNA molecule of somatic and germ cells. Keeping this in mind, we have thought of developing a molecular method to differentiate somatic cell DNA from germline DNA of an individual. We have conducted this study on human males only, on account of the fact that it is easier to get male germline sample. DYZ1 satellite DNA constitutes approximately 40% of the human Y chromosome. DYZ1 is found in 3000-4300 copies on the long arm of the human Y chromosome. We have sequenced 3564 bp unit of DYZ1 array which largely contains a pentanucleotide repeat TTCCA. Number of TTCCA repeats and its single base pair derivatives (generated by replacing A,T,G and C bases one by one at all 5 positions respectively keeping other bases constant) per 3564 bp unit, generates a profile which is found to be different at many points between somatic and germline DNA. Using this approach, DYZ1 can be used as a tool to differentiate somatic DNA from germline DNA of an individual. This technique might have a potential application in forensic science also.