DNA Fingerprinting in Camels (Camelus dromedarius) Using Microsatellite Oligo Probes

Oligonucleotide probes specific for simple tandem repeat sequences produce individual specific DNA fingerprints in man and all animal species so far. In the present investigation (r)-p labeled oligonucleotide probes (GTG)5, (GT)8 and (GGAT)4 were used as multilocus probes to detect hypervariable microsatellites in the Indian dromedary camel population. Oligo probes were radiolabelled and hybridized to camel genomic DNA from 3 breeds viz. Bikaneri, Jaisalmeri and Kachchhi which had been digested with the restriction endonucleases Hinf I and Hae III. Two of these probes revealed DNA fingerprint patterns which were analyzed for 3 breeds to characterize intra or inter-breed variations. The oligonucletide (GGTA)4 gave individual specific DNA fingerprint patterns with 3 to 4 polymorphic bands, while (GTG)5 generated less discernible individual variation. The number of DNA bands varied from 6 to 12 in number with molecular weight ranging from 1.0 kb to 14 kb. The probe (GT)8 generated as low as 6 bands with little variability among individuals. The application of DNA fingerprinting technique may prove to be valuable in the precise identification of individuals and study of genetic variation in camel breeds.