Advances in Molecular Cytogenetics

The field of molecular cytogenetics is concerned with the combination of the fields of cytogenetics and molecular biology, to distinguish normal cells from cancer-causing cells. It is a useful tool for the diagnosis and treatment of malignancies of the brain, blood, etc. Novel techniques known as fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) are used for molecular cytogenetic studies. These have DNA labeled with uniquely colored fluorescent tags to image specific regions of the genome. Molecular cytogenetic techniques are crucial for the understanding of the structural and functional organization of the nucleus and the chromosome, genome variation, gene expression and evolution. These also give insight into the contribution of genomic variations and chromosomal abnormalities to tumor genetics and medical genetics. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the field of molecular cytogenetics. It is an upcoming field of science that has undergone rapid development over the past few decades. Students, researchers, experts and all associated with this field will benefit alike from this book.