Advanced microtechnologies for detection of chromosome abnormalities by fluorescent in situ hybridization

Cytogenetic and molecular cytogenetic analyses, which aim to detect chromosome abnormalities, are routinely performed in cytogenetic laboratories all over the world. Traditional cytogenetic studies are performed by analyzing the banding pattern of chromosomes, and are complemented by molecular cytogenetic techniques such as fluorescent hybridization (FISH). To improve FISH application in cytogenetic analysis the issues with long experimental time, high volumes of expensive reagents and requirement for trained technicians need to be addressed. The protocol has recently evolved towards on chip detection of chromosome abnormalities with the development of microsystems for FISH analysis. The challenges addressed by the developed microsystems are mainly the automation of the assay performance, reduction in probe volume, as well as reduction of assay time. The recent focus on the development of automated systems for performing FISH on chip is summarized in this review.