Microsatellite Instability (MSI)

Microsatellite instability (MSI) is a form of genomic instability due to reduced fidelity during the replication of repetitive DNA. Often occurring in tumor cells, MSI leads to the appearance of multiple alleles at microsatellite loci, which can be easily identified.

Microsatellite instability analysis involves comparing allelic profiles of specific microsatellite markers in normal and tumor samples. Data available for thousands of markers across numerous organisms makes microsatellite analysis a widely accepted tool for linkage and association studies as well as for identification studies of individual organisms (including human identification).

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An example of RER for a homozygote allele at D18S35

Genomic Instability Identified by MSI Analysis

The electropherogram of the dinucleotide repeat marker D18S35 from a homozygous individual (top panel). The appearance of numerous extra alleles at lower molecular weights in the tumor sample (bottom panel) indicates significant genomic instability.

Step-by-Step Guide to Microsatellite Instability

DNA Purification kit

DNA extraction is a critical first step in the experimental workflow of DNA Sequencing and Fragment analysis. The overall quality, accuracy and length of the DNA sequence read can be significantly affected by characteristics of the sample itself, and the method chosen for nucleic acid extraction. Ideal methods will vary depending on the source or tissue type, how it was obtained from its source, and how the sample was handled or stored prior to extraction.

Recommended Products: DNA Isolation

Highlighted Products for Microsatellite Instability Analysis:

Verti Thermal Cycler

3500 Series Genetic Analyzers

GeneMapper® Software

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