Karyotype

Question 1

What is a karyotype?

Answer 1

An arrangement of chromosomes found in a cell according to:
* position of centromere
* white and dark patterns of genes
* each 2 homologous chromosomes together

Karyotyping provides insights into genetic disorders and species classification.

Question 2

What is the first step in the karyotyping procedure?

Answer 2

Take 5ml of venous blood

Blood is needed to extract white blood cells for karyotyping.

Question 3

Why are white blood cells (WBC) used in karyotyping?

Answer 3

WBC are nucleated

Nucleated cells contain the necessary genetic material for karyotyping.

Question 4

What is the purpose of culturing WBC or lymphocytes for 3 days at 37°C?

Answer 4

To allow them to multiply by mitosis

This step is essential for obtaining sufficient cells for analysis.

Question 5

What is added to the culture medium to arrest metaphase?

Answer 5

Colchicine

Colchicine prevents the spindle fibers from forming, which is crucial for halting cell division during the metaphase stage.

Question 6

What is the purpose of swelling and lysing WBC?

Answer 6

For better spreading of chromosomes

This process helps in the observation of chromosomes by destroying the plasma and nuclear membranes.

Question 7

What are the objectives of karyotyping? (List at least three)

Answer 7

Objectives of karyotyping include:
* To identify the sex of the organism
* To count the number of chromosomes of each species
* To determine if the organism is normal or abnormal
* To classify the cell as diploid or haploid

Karyotyping is a key tool in genetics for diagnosing chromosomal abnormalities.

Question 8

True or False: Karyotyping can be used to determine if an organism is normal or abnormal.

Answer 8

True

Karyotyping helps identify chromosomal abnormalities that can lead to genetic disorders.