RAD Marker Technology Published in Genome Research
We are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking methodological publication in Genome Research that introduces Restriction site Associated DNA (RAD) markers for rapid genetic analysis.
The Innovation
Working with Eric Johnson’s lab at the UO Institute of Molecular Biology, we developed a technique that enables rapid and cost-effective polymorphism identification and genotyping in any organism. This technology, called RAD (Restriction site Associated DNA) markers, represents a major advance in genetic analysis.
How RAD Works
The method uses:
- Restriction enzyme digestion to sample consistent genomic locations
- Short DNA tags adjacent to restriction sites
- Microarray or sequencing-based genotyping
- Thousands of genetic markers from a single experiment
Advantages
RAD markers offer several key advantages:
- Works in any organism without prior sequence knowledge
- Identifies thousands of polymorphisms simultaneously
- Cost-effective compared to traditional methods
- Enables population-scale studies
- Useful for genetic mapping and population genetics
Applications
This technology opens new possibilities for:
- Genetic mapping in non-model organisms
- Population genomics and conservation genetics
- Association studies and QTL mapping
- Phylogeography and evolutionary studies
- Agricultural and aquaculture applications
Research Team
- Michael R. Miller
- Joseph P. Dunham
- Angel Amores
- William A. Cresko
- Eric A. Johnson
Impact
This publication launched a revolution in population genomics. The RAD technology and its derivatives (RAD-seq, ddRAD, 2bRAD, etc.) have been adopted by thousands of researchers worldwide, enabling genetic studies in virtually any organism.
Technology Transfer
This innovation also led to the founding of Floragenex, a UO technology spinoff company that commercialized RAD genotyping services.
Publication: Miller MR, Dunham JP, Amores A, Cresko WA, Johnson EA (2007). Rapid and cost-effective polymorphism identification and genotyping using Restriction site Associated DNA (RAD) markers. Genome Research 17(2):240-248.