Ch. 15 Genomics & Proteomics

Also known as linkage maps, these maps provide a rough approximation of the locations of genes relative to the locations of other known genes. These maps are based on the genetic process of recombination. Individual organisms of known genotype are crossed, and the frequency of recombination between loci is determined by examining the progeny. For linked genes, the rate of recombination is proportional to the physical distances between the loci. Distances on genetic maps are measured in recombination frequencies (centiMorgans, cM), or map units.

Genetic maps

The field of genetics that attempts to understand the content, organization, function, and evolution of the genetic information contained in whole genomics.

Genomics

Maps based on the direct analysis of DNA, and they place genes in relation to distances measured in number of base pairs, kilobases, or megabases. A common type of this map is one that connects isolated pieces of genomic DNA that have been cloned in bacteria or yeast. These maps are analogous to a neighborhood map that shows the location of every house along a street, whereas a genetic map is analogous to a highway map that shows the general locations of major towns and cities.

Physical maps

The study of the organization and sequence of the genetic information contained within a genome.

Structural genomics