What is Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH)?
Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) is a powerful molecular technique used in histology to detect and localize the presence or absence of specific DNA sequences on chromosomes. This method uses fluorescent probes that bind to only those parts of the chromosome with which they show a high degree of sequence complementarity. FISH is widely used in clinical diagnostics, genetic research, and cancer studies.
Preparation of the sample: Tissue samples are fixed and permeabilized to allow the probes to access the DNA.
Denaturation: The DNA in the sample is denatured to single strands.
Hybridization: Fluorescently labeled probes are added, which hybridize to their complementary DNA sequences.
Washing: Unbound probes are washed away to reduce background fluorescence.
Visualization: The sample is examined under a fluorescence microscope to detect the hybridized probes.
Applications of FISH in Histology
FISH has numerous applications in histology, including:Advantages of FISH
Some key advantages of FISH include: High specificity and sensitivity: FISH can detect even small genetic changes with high precision.
Rapid results: FISH provides faster results compared to traditional karyotyping.
Visualization: Direct visualization of genetic abnormalities at the chromosomal level.
Limitations of FISH
Despite its advantages, FISH has some limitations: Cost: The technique can be expensive due to the need for specialized equipment and probes.
Limited resolution: FISH may not detect very small genetic changes or mutations.
Technical complexity: The procedure requires skilled personnel to perform and interpret the results.
