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Detection of unidentified chromosome abnormalities in human neuroblastoma by spectral karyotyping (SKY)
Author(s) -
Cohen Ninette,
Betts David R.,
Trakhtenbrot Luba,
Niggli Felix K.,
Amariglio Ninette,
BrokSimoni Frida,
Rechavi Gideon,
Meitar Dafna
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
genes, chromosomes and cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.754
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1098-2264
pISSN - 1045-2257
DOI - 10.1002/gcc.1136
Subject(s) - karyotype , neuroblastoma , sky , biology , chromosome , metaphase , breakpoint , chromosomal translocation , genetics , cytogenetics , identification (biology) , chromosome band , computational biology , fluorescence in situ hybridization , gene , cell culture , astronomy , physics , botany
Spectral karyotyping (SKY) is a novel technique based on the simultaneous hybridization of 24 fluorescently labeled chromosome painting probes. It provides a valuable addition to the investigation of many tumors that can be difficult to define by conventional banding techniques. One such tumor is neuroblastoma, which is often characterized by poor chromosome morphology and complex karyotypes. Ten primary neuroblastoma tumor samples initially analyzed by G‐banding were analyzed by SKY. In 8/10 tumors, we were able to obtain additional cytogenetic information. This included the identification of complex rearrangements and material of previously unknown origin. Structurally rearranged chromosomes can be identified even in highly condensed metaphase chromosomes. Following the SKY results, the G‐banding findings were reevaluated, and the combination of the two techniques resulted in a more accurate karyotype. This combination allows identification not only of material gained and lost, but also of breakpoints and chromosomal associations. The use of SKY is therefore a powerful tool in the genetic characterization of neuroblastoma and can contribute to a better understanding of the molecular events associated with this tumor. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.