Abstract
Conventional cytogenetic analysis of chromosome abnormalities in hematologic malignancies is hampered by the low mitotic index and poor quality of metaphases. A range of techniques based on fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) has greatly enhanced the identification of non-random translocations and deletions, pinpointing regions which contain genes involved in leukemogenesis. One of the main advantages of FISH is its ability to use non-dividing interphase cells as DNA targets, enabling the screening of large numbers of cells and providing access to a variety of cells with different hematopoetic activity. Furthermore, multicolor FISH (SKY, M-FISH and CGH microarrays) combines the screening potential of cytogenetics with the accuracy of molecular genetics, allowing the visualization of the entire human genome in 24 different colors.
Footnotes
- Received February 7, 2005.
- Accepted May 2, 2005.
- Copyright© 2005 International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. John G. Delinassios), All rights reserved