genetic screen

A genetic screen is screen is a laboratory procedure used to create and detect a mutant organism. It also goes by the name mutagenesis screen. In order to identify the function of an unknown gene, one strategy is to introduce general mutations into an organism and then study both the mutant and the control organisms in hopes of detecting a difference in their physical properties or phenotypes.

Mutations can be introduced into an organism's genome by exposing the organism to a mutagen, which is an agent that changes the DNA. Commonly used mutagens include environmental agents, such as ultraviolet light, and chemical agents, such as ethylmethane sulfonate. The process of introducing mutations in DNA is called mutagenesis. Following mutagenesis, a systematic screening of the mutant and control organisms is performed to detect any difference in their phenotypes. The screening process may include visual observations of the organisms' appearances, behavioral tests, and physiological examinations. Once an abnormal phenotype is detected, the mutated gene can be identified by linkage mapping and the gene can be sequenced. Additional studies can then be performed to better understand the gene's functions.