July 30, 2008 — Chromosomal rearrangements leading to genomic disorders are often mediated by low-copy repeat regions of the genome (e.g. segmental duplications). Roche NimbleGen CGH arrays offer expanded probe coverage in these regions. Using this technique, the authors of a recently published paper¹ identified a recurrent reciprocal genomic rearrangement of chromosomal region 17q12 in fetal samples with congenital anomalies that is also associated with pediatric renal disease and epilepsy. The results emphasize the importance of evaluating de novo structural variation events in pediatric diseases other than mental retardation and the importance of duplication architecture as a predisposing factor for disease. Genomic disorders result from nonallelic homologous recombination (NAHR) between low-copy repeat regions of the genome and occur in approximately 1 in 1,000 live births. The phenotypes of many of these known genomic disorders include developmental delay and mental retardation. Therefore, screening for novel genomic disorders has largely focused on patients with cognitive disability and/or peripheral nervous system defects... Roche NimbleGen's Press Release -
