allele-specific oligonucleotide hybridization
Pronunciation: ah-LEEL speh-SIF-ik oh-li-go-NU-klee-oh-tide hy-brid-eye-ZAY-shun
A molecular technique using short DNA probes that bind only to perfectly matched target sequences.
Full Definition
Allele-specific oligonucleotide hybridization (ASO) is a molecular genetic technique that employs short, single-stranded DNA probes designed to hybridize only to their perfectly complementary target sequences. This method is particularly valuable in reproductive genetics for detecting known mutations in carrier screening and preimplantation genetic testing. The technique relies on the principle that even single nucleotide mismatches can destabilize probe-target binding under appropriate stringency conditions, allowing discrimination between normal and mutant alleles.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as ASO in laboratory contexts.
In Context
- "The laboratory used allele-specific oligonucleotide hybridization to confirm the presence of the deltaF508 mutation." — Genetic testing report
- "ASO hybridization provides a reliable method for detecting known point mutations in carrier screening panels." — Laboratory protocol