A NOVEL ALGORITHM FOR SMN1 AND SMN2 COPY NUMBER ANALYSIS USING COVERAGE DEPTH DATA FROM NEXT GENERATION SEQUENCING

摘要

The disclosure concerns methods and compositions for obtaining reliable copy numbers of highly homologous gene(s) using next generation sequencing. The methods determine whether or not an individual is a carrier of an autosomal recessive gene mutation using a determination of copy number of two genes, in specific embodiments. In at least some cases, an individual is identified whether or not he or she is a carrier or affected for a genetic defect in SMN1, wherein the defect is associated with spinal muscular atrophy.