Novel Method Detects Early Signs of Genetic Mutations

Researchers from New York University Langone Health developed a new method that can detect molecular changes in DNA before they become permanent mutations.

Most mutations originate in DNA changes that are found in only one DNA strand. These changes are the result of a DNA strand that is incorrectly copied during replication or when a strand is damaged due to heat or chemicals in the body. Unfortunately, single-strand changes cannot be identified using existing testing methods.

To address the issue, scientists from NYU Langone Health produced the Hairpin Duplex Enhanced Fidelity Sequencing (HiDEF-seq) technique. This novel method accurately detects double-strand mutations and identifies DNA changes in single strands before they turn into permanent double-strand mutations. Their research may help boost understanding of the causes of mutations and how genetic changes occur in cells as people get older.

For more information, read the press release of NYU Langone Health.