The stability of genome can be defined as ability to maintain its structure and
functioning in mutable conditions. Genome instability is any deviation from
normal structure and functioning. The individual level of genome instability
varies in dependence on features of genotype and age of individual, and also
under action of the environmental factors.
The genetical factors of genome stability are determined by individual features
of repair systems. The different efficiency of different systems of a reparation
of genome can result into various endpoints of genome instability: from the
increased mutability of separate fields of genome up to development
abnormalityes of the whole organism.
Various approaches are used for revealing manifestations of genome instability.
The molecular-genetic methods allow to disclose presence of specific
DNA-adducts, DNA damage and efficiency of their reparation in concrete genes,
instability of mini- and microsatellite repetitions.
The cytogenetic methods allow to reveal manifestations of genome instability on
cell level: structural and quantitative chromosomal anomalies (metaphase and
anaphase methods of analysis), presence of micronucleuses and various nuclear
anomalies.
At the organism level the genetical instability results in increase phenotype
instability, which cen be determined by morphologic-anatomical methods.
Complex use of the described methods lets obtain most integrate characteristic
of individual and group features of genome instability.
An authors express one's thanks to the INTAS for support of this research (INTAS project 01-0517).
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