metaphase spread

Full Definition

A metaphase spread refers to chromosomes that have been arrested during the metaphase stage of mitosis and spread out on a microscope slide for cytogenetic analysis. During metaphase, chromosomes are maximally condensed and aligned at the cell's equator, making them ideal for karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) studies. In reproductive genetics, metaphase spreads from cultured amniocytes, chorionic villus samples, or lymphocytes are essential for detecting chromosomal abnormalities and structural rearrangements.

Usage

Usage note: Often used interchangeably with 'metaphase' in cytogenetic contexts.

In Context

• "The cytogeneticist examined twenty metaphase spreads to confirm the suspected balanced translocation." — Chromosome analysis report
• "Poor cell culture conditions resulted in inadequate metaphase spreads for accurate karyotype analysis." — Laboratory quality assessment