FISH-based analysis of radiation-induced chromosomal aberrations using different nomenclature systems

• Published in: International journal of radiation biology Vol. 73; no. 2; pp. 135 - 141
• Main Author: KNEHR, H. ZITZELSBERGER and M. BAUCHINGER, S.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London Informa UK Ltd 01.02.1998; Taylor & Francis
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Chromosome Aberrations; Chromosomes, Human - radiation effects; Female; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Humans; In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence; Metaphase; Molecular and cellular biology; Molecular genetics; Mutagenesis. Repair; Space life sciences; Terminology as Topic; Chromosomal aberration; Radiation injury; Lymphocyte; Chromosome painting; DNA
• ISSN: 0955-3002; 1362-3095
• DOI: 10.1080/095530098142509

Purpose: Comparison of three nomenclature systems for the description of chromosomal aberrations involving painted chromosomes (PAINT, S&S and a conventional method) by parallel application to one data set. Materials and methods: Radiation-induced (3 Gy 220 kV X-rays) chromosome aberrations in human lymphocytes were analysed by FISH-painting of seven single chromosomes (1, 3, 6, 7, 8, 10 and 14) simultaneously with a pancentromeric probe. Results: Each system is based on different prerequisites and uses different criteria for the classification and quantification of structural chromosome aberrations. Due to the frequent occurrence of complex exchanges (resulting from 3 breaks on 2 chromosomes), standard cytogenetic scoring criteria used for solid-stained preparations are inadequate for a precise and reproducible classification of aberrant painting patterns. S&S is particularly suitable if a mechanistic interpretation of aberration origins is required. The descriptive terminology of PAINT enables a rapid, reproducible description, even of most extensively rearranged chromosomes by classifying each abnormal painting pattern individually. Conclusion: A modification of PAINT criteria, allowing also for mechanistic aspects, would be most advantageous for practical application.