Molecular Techniques in Pathology

Molecular techniques have revolutionized diagnostic pathology, and this topic provides a comprehensive overview of key methods such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH). It covers the principles, essential components, types (e.g., RT-PCR, real-time PCR, nested PCR), and troubleshooting of PCR. For FISH, it explores probe types (centromeric, locus-specific, whole chromosome), procedures, and variants like spectral karyotyping and comparative genomic hybridization. For Zambian tertiary students in degrees or diplomas in biomedical science, medical laboratory technology, or molecular biology, mastering these techniques is essential for modern diagnostics, including detecting genetic mutations, chromosomal abnormalities, infectious agents, and cancer biomarkers. This knowledge equips learners with skills highly sought after in research and clinical laboratories across Zambia, enhancing their employability and ability to contribute to personalized medicine and advanced pathological investigations within the university and national healthcare framework.