Comparative genomic hybridization assays and compositions for use in
practicing the same are provided. In the subject methods, at least first
and second genomic templates are prepared from first and second genomic
sources using an amplification reaction that employs a highly processive
polymerase, where the amplification reaction produces amplification
products having an average molecular size of at least about 10 kb with
substantially no amplification bias. The resultant templates are then
employed to produce at least first and second probe nucleic acid
populations. The resultant probe nucleic acid populations are then
contacted with a plurality of oligonucleotide target elements immobilized
on a solid support surface and the binding of at least first and second
populations is then evaluated. Also provided are kits for use in
practicing the subject methods.