CTYOGENETIC LAB - KARYOTYPING
 
There are several genetic disorders that involve entire chromosomes.  The objective of this lab will be to:
1)  analyze a set of chromosomes and determine if there is a genetic disorder
2)  investigate the possible effects of the disorder in your karyotype
 3)  explore other types of disorders using the computer and comparison of  karyotypes with other lab groups
 4)  be able to define deletion, inversion, translocation, monosomy, and a trisomy chromosome mutations

PROCEDURE:

  1. Obtain a set of chromosomes
  2. Match the chromosomes with their homologous mate.  One chromosome of each pair is numbered,  as you match your chromosomes number the homologous pairs.  You need to be very systematic.   The number one chromosome is the largest.  Its corresponding mate should be of the same size, with the same banding pattern, and have the same centromere location.
  3. Determine the karyotype abnormality using the Chromosome Analysis Key that is below.  Keep in mind there might be some slight variations.  The key below will help guide you.
  4. Research your abnormality using the resources available.  A photograph of a real karyotype for the disorder is in the computer database.
  5. Locate examples of the five types of chromosome abnormalities  using the computer or karyotypes from other lab groups in the room.
SIMPLE KEY FOR DIAGNOSING CHROMOSOME ABNORMALITIES INFORMAL LAB REPORT
    1. Explain what the word cytogenetics means.
    2. Briefly discuss the chromosome abnormality in the karyotype you analyzed.  Be sure to include the type of abnormality,  the total number of chromosomes in the karyotype,   the specific chromosome involved, the gender of karyotype, and the reason for the gender in your discussion.
    3. Using your knowledge of meiosis discuss how the chromosome abnormality could have occurred.
    4. After comparing disorders, which of the chromosome disorders seems to be the most damaging? Least?   Explain giving an example.  Why do you think that there was only one monosomy example?
    5. Karyotyping can be used as a prenatal screening tool.  Is a baby guaranteed from genetic disorders if the chromosome configuration appears normal?  Explain.
 Link to Database