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Cytogenetics is a branch of biology that focuses on the study of chromosomes and their inheritance, especially as applied to medical genetics. Chromosomes are microscopic structures containing DNA that reside within the nucleus of a cell. During cell division, these structures become condensed and are visible with a microscope. Special staining techniques can be used to assess the number and structure of a person’s chromosomes as part of diagnostic testing. The number and/or structure of chromosomes is known to be altered in certain genetic diseases.
Cytogenetic testing is also used for both postnatal and prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities.The following are the differences between postnatal and prenatal cytogenetic testing:
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The goal of prenatal diagnosis is to identify potential genetic or chromosomal problems in a fetus before birth. Cytogenetic prenatal diagnosis can be performed through different procedures such as amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling, or cordocentesis. These procedures involve the collection of a small sample of amniotic fluid, placental tissue, or fetal blood, which is then analyzed for chromosomal abnormalities. The most common test performed is a karyotype, which is a visual representation of an individual's chromosomes . Over the last thirty years, prenatal diagnostic investigations have considerably progressed, and new techniques have been developed by cytogeneticists
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Amniocyte culture media are specifically designed for the culture of human amniotic fluid cells (AFC) used in prenatal diagnostic testing.
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Media for chorionic villus culture is used for prenatal testing to verify severe chromosomal disorders in the developing baby. Chorionic villi have three major components: syncytiotrophoblasts, cytotrophoblasts, and an inner mesodermal layer that contains fetal capillaries.
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When selecting a culture medium, consider factors such as the specific research objectives, the stage of cell culture (primary culture or subculture), and any additional supplements or additives needed to meet the nutritional and growth factor requirements of the cells. Additionally, maintaining sterility and proper pH conditions is crucial to ensure the success of culture. Always follow the recommended protocols and guidelines provided by your laboratory or cell culture supplier for optimal results.
Cytogenetic and molecular diagnostic testing can be used for postnatal diagnostic purposes. These tests can help identify the cause or confirm a diagnosis associated with developmental delay, intellectual disability, dysmorphic features, heart defects, multiple malformations, short stature, stillbirth, neonatal death, or fertility problems. Different diagnostic cytogenetic and molecular genetic techniques are applied in clinical genetics laboratories, from conventional ones to the state of the art chromosomal microarrays and next-generation sequencing. Chromosome analysis is indicated for patients with suspected chromosomal abnormalities, family history of a chromosome abnormality, primary or secondary. The turnaround time for chromosome analysis is 2-4 weeks.
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Culturing bone marrow cells is a common practice in research and clinical settings for various applications, including studying hematopoiesis and bone marrow disorders. To support the growth and maintenance of bone marrow cells, specialized cell culture media are used.
When selecting a culture medium for bone marrow cells, it's important to consider the cell type you are working with (e.g., hematopoietic cells, MSCs) and the specific research objectives. Additionally, maintaining sterility, controlling pH, and providing proper incubation conditions are crucial for successful bone marrow cell culture.
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Culturing peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) is a common practice in immunology and cell biology research for various applications, including immune function studies, cell signaling assays, and drug testing. To support the growth and maintenance of PBLs, specialized cell culture media are used.
When selecting a culture medium for PBLs, consider the specific lymphocyte subsets you are working with (e.g., T cells, B cells, NK cells) and the research objectives. Serum-free media may be preferred for certain applications to reduce variability and avoid potential interference from serum components.
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