Statistical decision rules concerning synteny or independence between markers

Data on the segregation of human markers in somatic hybrids between permanent rodent cell lines and primary human cells were gathered and statistically analyzed, using various criteria of association. The analysis provides evidence that human chromosomes do not segregate independently in somatic cell hybrids. A statistical decision rule concerning synteny or independence between markers is proposed, and its utility in developing the gene maps of other species by means of somatic cell hybridization is explored.