Genomic inverse PCR for exploration of ligated breakpoints (GIPFEL), a new method to detect translocations in leukemia.

Here we present a novel method "Genomic inverse PCR for exploration of ligated breakpoints" (GIPFEL) that allows the sensitive detection of recurrent chromosomal translocations. This technique utilizes limited amounts of DNA as starting material and relies on PCR based quantification of unique DNA sequences that are created by circular ligation of restricted genomic DNA from translocation bearing cells. Because the complete potential breakpoint region is interrogated, a prior knowledge of the individual, specific interchromosomal fusion site is not required.