Histologists use various techniques to detect chromosome breakage:
1. Karyotyping: This technique involves staining chromosomes to visualize them under a microscope, allowing for the detection of large-scale chromosomal abnormalities. 2. Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH): FISH uses fluorescent probes to bind to specific chromosome regions, making it easier to identify breaks and translocations. 3. Comet Assay: This technique measures DNA strand breaks in individual cells. Cells are embedded in agarose gel, lysed, and subjected to electrophoresis, creating a "comet" appearance where the tail indicates DNA breakage.