Concurrent flow cytometric analysis of DNA and RNA.

Concurrent analysis of DNA and RNA by flow cytometry provides information on the DNA content and the transcriptional status of cells. This can be accomplished using metachromatic fluorochromes that bind to DNA by intercalation and to single-stranded RNA electrostatically. Because cell viability is a prerequisite for the analysis, freshly prepared cells must be used. Simultaneous DNA/RNA analysis can be used primarily in the classifications and biological assessment of hematoreticular malignancies including multiple myeloma.