Gene trap as a tool for genome annotation and analysis of X chromosome inactivation in human embryonic stem cells.

ABSTRACT: Human embryonic stem (ES) cells were suggested to be an important tool in transplantation medicine. However, they also play a major role in human genetics. Using the gene trap strategy, we have created a bank of clones with insertion mutations in human ES cells. These insertions occurred within known, predicted and unknown genes, and thus assist us in annotating the genes in the human genome. The insertions into the genome occurred in multiple chromosomes with a preference to larger chromosomes. Utilizing a clone where the integration occurred in the X chromosome, we have studied X-chromosome inactivation in human cells. We thus show that in undifferentiated female human ES cells both X chromosomes remain active and upon differentiation one chromosome undergoes inactivation. In the differe

SUBMITTER: Dhara SK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC506821 | biostudies-literature | 2004

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature