Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) is a molecular cytogenetic technique used to detect and visualize specific DNA sequences within cells or tissues. It is commonly utilized in research and clinical settings to study genetic abnormalities, chromosome structure, gene expression, and chromosomal rearrangements.
In FISH, a specific DNA probe is created by labeling a DNA sequence of interest with a fluorescent dye. This probe is then hybridized to the target DNA in the cells or tissue sections being studied. The probe binds specifically to the complementary DNA sequences, allowing visualization and identification of the targeted genetic material.
The technique amplifies or magnifies the signal obtained from the hybridization reaction using fluorescent tags, such as fluorescently labeled nucleotides, antibodies, or other biomolecular markers. These labels emit distinct colors of light, such as red, green, or blue, allowing multiple target DNA sequences to be detected simultaneously.
FISH enables researchers to examine the organization and location of specific genes or DNA sequences within the context of intact cells or tissues. It provides valuable insights into the structural and functional aspects of DNA, enabling the identification of genetic alterations and abnormalities associated with diseases, including cancer and genetic disorders.
Overall, fluorescent in situ hybridization is a versatile and powerful molecular technique that has revolutionized the field of genetics by providing high-resolution visualization and analysis of specific DNA sequences in a wide range of biological samples.
