Use of BAC End Sequences for SNP Discovery

Genetic markers have evolved over the years, increasing in their numbers and utility. Beginning with phenotypes such as smooth or wrinkled, the selection of genetic markers broadened to include blood group and histocompatibility antigens, and protein allotypes. Around 1980, DNA itself became the marker (1 ), first with restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) and then with amplification polymorphisms based on simple sequence lengths (SSLPs) (2 ). Each advance in the availability and usefulness of genetic markers has contributed to advances in fundamental and applied genetics.