An easy method for instant preparation of chromosome slides from solid tumors.

Chinese hamster cells and PHA-stimulated human lymphocytes cultured in vitro at 4 degrees C, are able to transverse G2 but unable to enter mitosis. Based on this observation a simple method for instant preparation of metaphase slides from solid tumors is presented. The method ensures good spreading of chromosomes within metaphases, high frequency of metaphases suitable for counting and karyotyping, and a high success-rate in several systems tested.