Microarray expression profiling of tissues from mice with uniparental duplications of Chromosomes 7 and 11 to identify imprinted genes

Microarray analysis allows the screening of thousands of identifiable genes in a single experiment. The challenge of this approach is to combine the n ew technology with established genetic tools to associate genes with specif ic biological function. In this study we have designed a screen to identify imprinted genes from mice with uniparental duplications of proximal Chromo somes (Chrs) 7 and 11, using microarray analysis. By comparing the expressi on patterns in embryonic and newborn tissues of maternally versus paternall y inherited proximal Chrs 7 and 11, we have correctly identified four out o f Five known imprinted genes represented on a microarray. We have additiona lly identified two novel imprinted candidate genes as well as a differentia lly expressed clone that is a potential downstream target. Interpretation o f the microarray data requires careful preparation of age- and strain-match ed samples and attention to detail in tissue dissection technique.