Cytogenetic identity: A new parameter for estimating whole-genome differences

In this paper, we introduce a novel parameter, called Cytogenetic Identity, to describe differences and similarities between genomes. Using Whole Comparative Genomic Hybridization plus Digital Image Analysis, we present a new methodology that employs the whole genome, including highly repeated DNA sequences, to provide a general picture about the differences between individuals of the same or different species. The proposed approach has a great potential in many different fields of research, like evolution, ecology, phylogenesis, etc. In the present study, we applied Cytogenetic Identity to establish a quantitative degree of divergence between different goat breeds. Advantages as well as disadvantages of the new parameter are discussed.