Introduction to Cytogenetics Laboratory Technology and Methodology is an entry-level course that utilizes hands-on training through demonstrations, lectures, and laboratories. The principles and methodologies involved in clinical cytogenetics testing in somatic genetics diseases are stressed. The students' background in the sciences is utilized to aid in the explanation of the relationship of results, application, and interpretation. The emphasis is also on lab organization, time management, individual and group activities, and the attainment of specified competencies related to the CSMLS document.

Through an extensive collection of normal and abnormal 5x7 prints of G-b prints, Cytovision reprints, and slides, the student is exposed to the many morphological and band characteristic variations of human metaphase chromosomes. Abnormal/normal karyotypes are described according to the 2005 ISCN criteria. The correlation between the chromosome outcomes and phenotype expression is stressed. A system for the analysis of human metaphase chromosomes in print or under the microscope is established. This allows for the consistent analysis of each metaphase to be studied and reduced errors. The student also does critical chromosome analysis on experimental tissue culture preparations (fibroblasts, amnion/chorion and amniotic fluid supers.

This course is designed to allow the student to assimilate previous academic and practical experience, with CLGT training, and to explore some of the subject matter as outlined in the competencies for clinical genetics published by the CSMLS (December, 2005). An oral presentation and written report and required and evaluated. The final examination consists of questions compiled from all the student reports, oral presentation, and the relevant literature submitted. A course outlines is required (2.5%) to be submitted to the instructor two (2) weeks after topic is selected. A complete reference section is required (5.0%) as well as a glossary of terms and definitions (2.5%) are also required.

This is an introductory course in computer assisted imaging for human, banded, metaphase chromosomes. Beginning at the microscope, students will learn the principles and techniques to capture "high quality" images of metaphase chromosomes on Cytovision. Principles and practical applications of computer assisted karyotyping will be covered. Students will learn how the principles of traditional photomicroscopy can also apply in part to the process of image enhancement and capture using Cytovision software. Students will critically compare traditional photographs to images produced with assisted image analysis instrumentation (Cytovision). Similarities and differences, always with the intent of improving the image(s) produced, will be reviewed.

This is an introductory course in the use of fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities. The theoretical and practical principles will be discussed including: prnciples of the FISH technique, preparation of tissues for FISH, types of DNA probes, epi-fluorescent microscopy, clinical applications of FISH, and analysis and interpretation of results. During the laboratory sessions, emphasis will be placed on the development of observational and troubleshooting skills. Documentation and interpretation of results will be emphasized.

A comprehensive introduction to diagnostic molecular techniques, this course covers theory, application, and intepretation of results. DNA isolated from blood, cell cultures, and solid tissue is used to demonstrate the diagnosis of heritable disease utilizing techniques such as polymerase chain reation (PCR) amplification, gel electrophoresis, Southern blotting, and DNA probe hybridization.

A continuation of CLGT 5501 but with increased emphasis on the quality of preparations and troubleshooting. Slide making techniques and theory are reviewed and are applied to blood cultures/suspensions. High resolution chromosomes are derived from specialized protocols using ethidium bromide, methotrexate, deoxycytidine, and FUdR. Various G-banding methods are studied and applied. Special banding procedures are reviewed. The need for an organized, professional approach to laboratory procedures/experiments is strongly emphasized. Students study workflow in blood culturing from accessioning to harvest and slide making. This is strongly emphasized an is a CSMLS competency given maximum time and resources. Prerequisites: CLGT 5501

The students are exposed to an increasing level of complexity in the chromosome abnormalities and increased band resolution that are to be examined. The system for selecting metaphases and analysis is reviewed and stressed. Through the analysis of test prints/slides and assigned cultures, a level of confidence and competence is reached. A chromosome project is optional. Pairs and partial karyotypes of prophase chromosomes as well as special stains and banding are organized. The selection of metaphases with chromosomes of high quality and the accuracy of the subsequent analysis are critical for success in this course. Understanding the relationship of chromosome analysis and karyotyping under the microscope with image reproduction support is crucial in this course and life as a professional cytogenetics technologist. Prerequisites: CLGT 5502

Students are assigned topics from the competencies for an entry-level clinical genetics technology published by the CSMLS (December, 2007) and from current clinical genetics literature. The topic is researched and is followed by and oral presentation and discussion. To complement the topic, a comprehensive handout is supplied to the other students and instructor. The presentation and written handout are evaluated. The Final Exam consists of questions compiled from all the student reports, oral presentations, questions, and the relevant literature submitted. Prerequisites: CLGT 5503

This course is a continuation of CLGT 5504 and provides the students with an opportunity to refine digital imaging skills using Cytovision. There is also a brief theoretical introduction to classical black and white photography. Emphasis will be placed on the quality of the finished karyotype/metaphase for band resolution, contrast, and analyzability. Prerequisites: CLGT 5504

This course is a continuation of CLGT 5505 and will build on the basic skills introduced in the first term. Additional interphase FISH techniques will be covered. The use and application of whole chromosome paint probes and loci-specific DNA probes will be introduced. ISCN nomenclature describing the use of FISH for detection of micro-deletions and translocations will be covered. Documentation and interpretation of results will be emphasized. Prerequisites: CLGT 5505

This course is a continuation of CLGT 5506. Additional concepts in lecture and lab format are introduced in the area of diagnostic molecular technology. Peripheral blood is used as the primary specimen type. Laboratory sessions cover PCR, DNA modification, and RNA isolation. Prerequisites: CLGT 5506

The practicum is 30 weeks in length and is divided between cytogenetics/FISH technology and molecular diagnostic technology. The cytogenetics/FISH portion of the practicum is approximately 18 weeks in length and deals with the theoretical and technical content of courses CLGT 5501/6601, 5502/6602, and 5505/6605, and well as methods not covered at BCIT due to time/equipment constraints. It may be necessary to locate some students to Victoria and Alberta and/or Manitoba due to a limited number of sites for CLGT 6608 and 6607.

The practicum is 30 weeks in length and is divided evenly between cytogenetics/FISH technology and molecular genetics technology. The molecular genetics portion of the practicum is approximately 12 weeks in length and deals with the theoretical and technical content of courses CLGT 5506/6606 as well as methods not covered at BCIT due to time/equipment constraints. It may be necessary to locate some students to Alberta and/or Manitoba due to a limited number of molecular genetics sites.