It detects a unique, expressed region of the genome, and is good for mapping. Polymorphism is generally detected as a size difference of the amplified product. The design and creation of good primers may involve a significant investment. The database below has examples that illustrate where to find and how to interpret information about EST markers. If you have a MaizeDB Database comment or question contact Mary Polacco , Curator.
Microsatellite markers detect hypervariable regions of the genome.
The microsatellite motif is used as a probe against genomic or cDNA libraries to identify clones containing the motif. These clones are then end sequenced, and primers are designed to amplify the unique DNA flanking the microsatellite motif. This method is repeatable, identifies a single locus, and targets hypervariable regions of the genome. Polymorphism is generally detected as a length difference in the amplified product. This length difference may be very small, for example 2 base pairs.