Single-Strand Conformational Polymorphism Analysis: Basic Principles and Routine Practice

Single-strand conformational polymorphism (SSCP) analysis is a simple and sensitive technique for mutation detection and genotyping. The principle of SSCP analysis is based on the fact that single-stranded DNA has a defined conformation. Altered conformation due to a single base change in the sequence can cause single-stranded DNA to migrate differently under nondenaturing electrophoresis conditions. Therefore wild-type and mutant DNA samples display different band patterns.