Cytogenetics

The Cytogenetic shared resource provides expertise and equipment to scientists throughout St. Jude that enables them to design, build, and utilize cell based genetic assays. Newly discovered genetic events that contribute to the biology of cancer can be directly visualized inside individual cells. Insights that can only be reached by directly visualizing the genome in its natural cellular environment can be gained that otherwise may have been overlooked. The expertise of the CSR staff is provided collaboratively to scientists throughout the institution in order to advance the goals of their research.

The CSR has made many impactful discoveries from the initial cloning of the ALK gene to discovery of novel mechanisms of oncogene activation through analysis of 3D chromatin dynamics and formation of transcription condensates in cancer. In addition to traditional cytogenetic capabilities, the CSR has developed immunofluorescence protein staining combined with both RNA and DNA FISH which can be applied to cells derived from culture or tissues. The center is especially well positioned to contribute to improved understanding of transcription and identification of potential points of intervention in this process to control expression of individual genes.