Spectral Karyotyping

Human prostate cancer cell line (tetraploid) with multiple structural anomalies

Spectral karyotyping (SKY) is an invaluable tool for identifying and classifying abnormal chromosomes. Each chromosome is specifically labeled with a unique combination of fluorochromes, with analysis based on the spectral properties of the fluorochrome(s) present at each pixel. Wavelengths are measured at each pixel, and the computer assigns a classification color for the wavelength corresponding to the respective chromosome.

Investigators are strongly encouraged to have routine cytogenetic analysis performed prior to human spectral karyotyping. Typically, five to 10 metaphases are analyzed by spectral karyotyping, with more analyzed if multiple clones are present.

Details

Spectral karyotyping is used to identify marker and ring chromosomes; detect and analyze complex chromosome translocations and insertions; identify cryptic translocations; and karyotype human, mouse and rat chromosomes.

Spectral karyotyping is limited to the detection of inversions, large duplications and large deletions in human, mouse and rat chromosomes. Human, mouse and rat probe sets are currently available.

Normal mouse SKY

• Human probe. Spectral karyotyping uses a 24-color multitarget fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) probe cocktail for chromosomes 1 through 22, X and Y.
• Mouse probe. Spectral karyotyping uses a 21-color multitarget FISH probe cocktail for chromosomes 1 through 19, X and Y.
• Rat probe. Spectral karyotyping uses a 22-color multitarget FISH probe cocktail for chromosomes 1 through 20, X and Y.

Fees

The cost for each project depends on services completed. This information is provided in each project quote, which must be approved by the principal investigator prior to project initiation.

Contact

For more information or to initiate a project, contact the core at 507-284-0128 or by email.