FISH
Also written as: FISH — Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization
Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization, a molecular technique detecting specific DNA sequences in tissue samples.
Full Definition
FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization) is a molecular cytogenetic technique that uses fluorescent probes to detect and localize specific DNA sequences within intact cells or tissue sections. In cancer genomics, FISH is commonly used to identify gene amplifications, deletions, and chromosomal translocations that may have therapeutic implications. FISH provides spatial information about genetic alterations within tissue architecture and can assess tumor heterogeneity. Editors must understand that FISH results are typically reported as ratios or copy numbers and that specific probe sets and scoring criteria vary by target gene and cancer type.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize as FISH when using the acronym. Include specific probe information and scoring ratios when available.
In Context
- "HER2 FISH testing revealed a gene amplification ratio of 3.2, confirming HER2-positive status." — breast cancer pathology report
- "FISH analysis detected ALK rearrangement in 85% of tumor cell nuclei in this lung adenocarcinoma." — molecular diagnostics report