Techniques for Genetic Analysis of Non Syndromal Cleft Lip/Palate: A Review

Abstract

The formation of craniofacial structures during embryonic development involves various complex molecular pathways. Disturbances in these pathways either due to genetic or environmental factors may lead to orofacial clefts. Approximately two thirds of the cases are not accompanied by other anomalies and are called non syndromic. The etiology seems complex, but genetics plays a major role. With the advances in molecular biology and genetics such studies are more refined than ever before and various candidate genes have been associated with Non Syndromal cleft lip/palate in different populations. There are various techniques and models used by different investigators across the globe. In this review we intend to describe most common approaches towards genetic analysis of Non syndromic cleft and try to evaluate the merits and demerits of a particular approach.