Cytogenomic Microarray Testing

Abstract

Cytogenomic microarray testing allows the detection of submicroscopic genomic rearrangements, commonly denominated copy number variations (CNVs) that are implicated with many neurodevelopmental disorders, dysmorphic features, multiple congenital anomalies, hematological and solid tumors, and complex disorders and traits in both humans and animals. On the other hand, this approach is also widely used for the identification of structural variations that are applied as a biomarker in pharmacogenomics, agriculture, and animal selection and breeding. The chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) has been applied for over a decade to screen for submicroscopic genomic gains and losses in DNA sample in both diagnostic and functional scenarios. Herein, we present an overview of the fundamental concepts of cytogenomics and its potential application in human genetic diagnosis, agrigenomics, mutagenesis, and pharmacogenomics.