In situ hybridization is a molecular biology technique that involves the use of a DNA or RNA probe to detect the presence of the complementary DNA sequence in cloned bacterial or cultured eukaryotic cells. This technique is also used for locating genes on chromosomes. The process is:
  1. Prepare a microscope slide of the cells to be hybridized in the metaphase stage of mitosis.

  2. Treat the slide with a weak base; this denatures the cell's DNA.

  3. Pour a solution containing the radioactively labeled probe onto the slide.

  4. Expose slide to a photographic emulsion for a few days or weeks.

  5. Develop the emulsion.

From the BioTech Dictionary at http://biotech.icmb.utexas.edu/. For further information see the BioTech homenode.

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