Genetic Diagnostic and Predictive Testing Flashcards
Define genetic testing.
The analysis of human DNA, RNA, chromosomes, proteins and certain metabolites in order to detect heritable disease related genotypes, mutations, phenoytpes or karyotypes for clinical purposes.
What is genetic screening?
- Done for a particular condition(s)
- In individuals, groups or populations
- WITHOUT family history of the condition
- Important Principles: Newborn screening, population specific screening
What is genetic diagnostic testing?
- Done for a particular condition
- Individual is suspected of being at increased risk due to their family history or individual history
What are the genetic testing laboratory methodologies from lowest to highest resolution?
- Chromosome Analysis (Karyotype)
- Higher Resolution Chromosome Analysis (array techniques, MLPA)
- FISH
- PCR Aneuploidy
- Single Gene (PCR, Sequencing)
What is the traditional method of chromosome analysis?
Karyotyping
What is the resolution of a karyotype?
Resolution low: 1-5 Megabases
1-5 million bases before visible
What does a karyotype detect?
Analyzes all chromosomes simultaneously.
- Detects numerical and structural abnormalities
What needs to be done for a karyotype to be made?
Cells need to be cultured.
What type of structural abnormalities can be detected on chromosome analysis?
Translocations
Deletions
Duplications
Inversions
What common numerical abnormalities can be detected on chromosome analysis?
Aneuploidies: 21, 18, 13, and X / Y
What are the 4 types of higher resolution chromosome analysis?
- FISH (Fluorescent in situ Hybridization)
- PCR Aneuploidy
- MLPA (Multiplex Ligation Probe Amplification)
- Array Comparative Genome Hybridization
What is the resolution of higher resolution chromosome analysis?
Few 100 base pairs
What is significant about higher resolution chromosome analysis testing?
- Test is directed at region of interest (rather than giving a global view)
- Uncultured cells are used (no need to wait for culturing)
What are some of the uses of higher resolution chromosome analysis?
- Aneuploidy screen = numerical abnormalities (13, 18, 21, X and Y)
- Micro-deletion Syndromes (William syndrome, 22q11)
- Subtelomeric Deletions (ends of chromosome)
- Full screening of all chromosomes for abnormalities not visible under microscope
What is aneuploidy screening by PCR?
Quantitative fluorescent PCR (QF-PCR) assay
What are the benefits of aneuploidy screening by PCR?
Automation allows high thorough-put of samples compared to conventional karyotyping.
- Decreases cost
- Decreases turn-around time (24-48 hours after sampling)
- Minimal sample required
= NEWER, FASTER, CHEAPER
What are QF-PCR tests used to detect?
QF-PCR tests are performed for the detection of major numerical abnormalities affecting chromosomes X, Y, 21, 18 and 13.
What does biochemical single gene analysis measure?
- Enzyme activity
- Amount of substrate
- Amount of product
- Alternative products