What is the main application of M-FISH?

M-FISH, or Multiplex Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization, is a powerful technique used primarily to analyze chromosomes in a highly detailed manner. Its principal application is to uniquely label all human chromosomes with different fluorescent dyes, allowing for the simultaneous visualization of all 24 chromosomes in a single experiment. This capability is crucial for identifying complex chromosomal abnormalities, such as translocations, aneuploidies, and other cytogenetic disorders that are important in oncology and genetic testing.

The unique labeling of chromosomes allows for a clear differentiation between them, making it easier to detect and characterize numerical and structural chromosomal anomalies. This is especially beneficial in cancer cytogenetics, where understanding chromosome alterations can guide treatment decisions and prognoses.

Other options, such as measuring cell viability, analyzing gene expression, or assessing culture conditions, are important techniques in cytogenetics and biology but do not specifically relate to the primary function of M-FISH. Instead, those processes employ different methodologies tailored for their unique objectives, highlighting the specificity and importance of M-FISH in chromosome analysis.