To study karyotypes in a lab, scientists use various methods to look at an organism's chromosomes and find genetic disorders. Here’s a simple explanation of the main steps involved:
First, scientists grow cells in a lab. They usually take white blood cells from a blood sample. Then, they use special chemicals to make the cells divide. This division helps them see the chromosomes when they are most compact.
After a few days of growth, the cells get treated with a chemical called colchicine. This stops the cells from dividing when they are in a stage called metaphase. This step is important because it's when chromosomes are the easiest to see and count.
Next, the cells are fixed and spread out on a microscope slide to make a single layer. The slide is stained to make the chromosomes visible. One common stain is called Giemsa stain, which gives the chromosomes a special banding pattern.
With a microscope, researchers can take pictures of the stained chromosomes. This step is key for looking at the karyotype, which shows paired chromosomes set up by size and shape.
Finally, in the analysis stage, scientists look at the number and structure of the chromosomes. They can find any unusual changes, like an extra chromosome in Down syndrome, known as Trisomy 21.
To study karyotypes in a lab, scientists use various methods to look at an organism's chromosomes and find genetic disorders. Here’s a simple explanation of the main steps involved:
First, scientists grow cells in a lab. They usually take white blood cells from a blood sample. Then, they use special chemicals to make the cells divide. This division helps them see the chromosomes when they are most compact.
After a few days of growth, the cells get treated with a chemical called colchicine. This stops the cells from dividing when they are in a stage called metaphase. This step is important because it's when chromosomes are the easiest to see and count.
Next, the cells are fixed and spread out on a microscope slide to make a single layer. The slide is stained to make the chromosomes visible. One common stain is called Giemsa stain, which gives the chromosomes a special banding pattern.
With a microscope, researchers can take pictures of the stained chromosomes. This step is key for looking at the karyotype, which shows paired chromosomes set up by size and shape.
Finally, in the analysis stage, scientists look at the number and structure of the chromosomes. They can find any unusual changes, like an extra chromosome in Down syndrome, known as Trisomy 21.