cytogenetics Flashcards
1
Q
How does staining work?
A
Cells are arrested in metaphase or prometaphase portion of cell cycle, the stains bind with DNA and generate characteristic banding patterns for different chromosomes.
Gene poor dna regions stain darkly, while less condensed chromatin is lighter.
2
Q
What is chorionic villus sampling?
A
Done in first 10-12 weeks of pregnancy, done for patients who have a known risk of a genetic abnormality in their family. Takes small sample of cells from placenta
3
Q
What is amniocentesis?
A
Done between 15 and 20 weeks, indicated by a anomaly noted in the routine ultrasound. Can be recommended to older women due to factors like maternal age.