High-definition genome profiling for genetic marker discovery.

Genetic mapping is a key step towards isolating genes and genetic markers associated with phenotypic traits by elucidating their genetic positions. The success of this approach depends on precision in pinpointing genetic positions and the effectiveness of the discovery process. Recent advances in microarray technology and the increasing availability of genomic information have provided an opportunity to use microarrays to scan effectively for genetic variations at the whole-genome scale, enabling the production of high-definition gene-based genetic maps, in combination with functional analyses and identification of trait-associated genetic marker candidates with high precision. In this review, we discuss the concept, process, tools and applications of microarray-based high-definition genetic analysis. This post-genomics approach should help to identify causative genetic variation by uniting genetic and functional information.