Cytogenetics and SKY

The Cytogenetics platform provides comprehensive support for the cytogenetic analysis of cells from research animal sources. Cytogenetic analyses are performed on chromosome preparations that have been treated and stained to produce a banding pattern specific to each chromosome. The most common staining treatment is called G-banding. Once stained metaphase chromosome preparations have been obtained they can be examined under the microscope. A wide range of chromosome analysis techniques are available; ranging from basic G-banded karyotyping, to 24-color Spectral Karyotyping (SKY), as well as Fluorescence in situ Hybridization (FISH).

Consultation on the materials required and the techniques for achieving the most effective outcome is available. For requests for additional chromosomal staining techniques not specifically listed above please contact M. Chagnon.

Service Description:

Classical Cytogenetics: G-banding   

This service includes the culturing of cells followed by chromosome harvesting, slide making and standard trypsin-Giemsa banding of mitotic cells. This staining technique produces metaphase chromosomes, with each chromosome displaying a unique banding pattern. A total of 20 mitosis are generated and 3 are fully analyzed.

Simple Karyotype:       Classical chromosome analysis to identify the chromosome number, to determine if the cell line is aneuploid and sexing of the line. 

Complex Karyotype:    Classical chromosome analysis to identify modal chromosome number, chromosome pattern, and designate karyotype signature.

Chromosomal Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH):

FISH utilizes fluorescently labeled probes to target specific genes or chromosome regions. The service includes the harvesting of samples, preparation of slides for hybridization, labeling of probe or BAC and hybridization of probe and visualization using a fluorescent microscope.

FISH can be performed on nuclei, interphase or metaphase chromosome slides.

Spectral karyotyping (SKY):

SKY is used to examine the karyotypes in dividing cells using multicolor whole chromosome-specific painting probes which allow the visualization of each chromosome as a different color.

The service includes the culturing of cells, harvesting, preparation of metaphase chromosome slides and hybridization of a probe mixture, consisting of the unique chromosome cocktail of probes, to metaphase chromosomes on a slide. The chromosomes are visualized through an interferometer and a computer analysis (spectral imaging).  A total of 5-10 metaphases are analyzed representing three color karyotypes.

SKY can detect chromosome material of unknown origin, complex rearrangements, translocations, large deletions, duplications, aneuploidy, and more. Some limitations of SKY include detecting microdeletions and inversions. Also, the technique can only be performed on dividing cells.

Service request forms

Fill out the Cytogenetics Service Request form and print the PDF file and FAX to 514-398-6769. You will receive an e-mail confirming reception of your request along with the turnaround time.

Fee Structure

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