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The cytogenetics of preimplantation human development: insights provided by traditional and novel techniques

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Abstract

Our understanding of the incidence and origin of chromosome abnormalities in human preimplantation embryos is very limited due to the necessary ethical constraints involved in studying such material and the limited data ultimately produced. Several studies have addressed this issue, however, using techniques such as interphase fluorescence in situ hybridisation, modified G-banding preparation and the use of single-cell comparative genomic hybridisation (CGH). This review discusses the use of these techniques in assessing chromosome abnormalities in this, the earliest of human developmental stages. In addition, the prospects for the clinical use of CGH are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 7NJ, UK

    Helen G. Tempest & Darren K. Griffin

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  1. Helen G. Tempest
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  2. Darren K. Griffin
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Correspondence to Helen G. Tempest.

Additional information

Communicated by D. Griffin

Review related to the 15th International Chromosome Conference (ICC XV), held in September 2004, Brunel University, London, UK

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Tempest, H.G., Griffin, D.K. The cytogenetics of preimplantation human development: insights provided by traditional and novel techniques. Chromosoma 114, 295–299 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00412-005-0340-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00412-005-0340-x

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