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Understanding Cancer Series

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  • Posted: 10/20/2009

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NCI Highlights

Slide 6

:

Genome-Wide Profiling: Karyotyping

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Spectral karyotyping is a method that allows researchers to use probes that assign a different color spectrum to each chromosome, making it possible to see where genetic material has been added or exchanged within a cancer genome.

Graphic shows that human chromosomes are first labeled so that each one has a separate color, then, after 72 hours of interacting with one another on a slide, a camera is used to see if any genetic material has exchanged. A chromosome appears that bears two colors, so genetic material has been exchanged.