What is a short tandem repeat (STR), and how can it be used to determine progenitor
cell engraftment?
What will be an ideal response
Throughout each chromosome are areas of repeated sequences that are not translated as part of any known gene.
Variable number tandem repeats (VNTRs) are repeats of 9–80 base pairs while short tandem repeats (STRs) are
repeats of 2–7 base pairs. Since the repeated sequences are not translated, mutations in these areas are highly
tolerated, leading to substantial differences between individuals regarding the actual number of base pairs repeated
in each of these regions. These differences can be used as markers to identify the individual who is the source of a
piece of DNA. Prior to progenitor cell transplant, the STR regions of donor and recipient DNA are tested until an
"informative locus" is found. An informative locus is one in which the donor and recipient STRs differ enough that
their DNA can be differentiated. Several loci typically need testing as progenitor cell transplants are often done
with related donors. Once an appropriate locus is determined, STR analysis of white cell DNA in the recipient can
be done to determine the degree to which the donor's cells did or did not successfully engraft.
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