The identification of fusion genes involves several techniques that can detect genetic abnormalities. Some of the commonly used methods are:
Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH): This technique uses fluorescent probes to detect specific DNA sequences on chromosomes, identifying translocations and other chromosomal rearrangements. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR): RT-PCR amplifies RNA sequences, allowing for the detection of fusion transcripts at a high sensitivity. Next-generation sequencing (NGS): NGS provides a comprehensive approach by sequencing entire genomes or transcriptomes, enabling the identification of known and novel fusion genes. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq): RNA-seq analyzes the transcriptome, providing detailed information about gene fusions, including their breakpoints and expression levels.
