Which technique is used for engraftment testing following bone marrow transplantation?

The technique used for engraftment testing following bone marrow transplantation is STR (Short Tandem Repeat) identification by PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction). This method is particularly effective in determining the presence and quantity of donor cells in the recipient's bone marrow post-transplantation.

ENGRAFTMENT TESTING involves analyzing genetic markers that differ between the donor and recipient. STRs are highly polymorphic regions of DNA that vary in length between individuals, making them excellent targets for distinguishing between donor and recipient cells. By amplifying these STR regions through PCR, clinicians can assess the proportion of donor versus recipient DNA, thereby determining the success of the transplant and whether the donor marrow has engrafted effectively.

The other techniques mentioned do not serve the same purpose in this context. SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) analysis also assesses genetic variations but is less commonly used for engraftment testing in practical settings due to its complexity and the fact that the variations may not be as numerous as STRs for distinguishing between the two genetic profiles. Western blotting is a technique used to detect specific proteins and is not applicable for analyzing DNA or monitoring engraftment. Gel electrophoresis is a method used to separate DNA or protein fragments but is typically used as a supportive technique