exo-FISH: Protocol for detecting DNA breaks in repetitive regions of mammalian genomes

STAR Protoc. 2023 Sep 15;4(3):102487. doi: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102487. Epub 2023 Aug 6.

Abstract

Detecting DNA breaks in defined regions of the genome is critical to advancing our understanding of genome stability maintenance. Here, we present exo-FISH, a protocol to label exposed single-stranded DNA in defined repetitive regions of mammalian genomes by combining in vitro restriction enzyme digestion on fixed cells with fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). We describe steps for cell harvesting and fixation, slide treatments, and FISH probe hybridization. We then detail procedures for imaging and analysis. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Saayman et al. (2023).1.

Keywords: Cell Biology; In Situ Hybridization; Microscopy; Molecular Biology; Single Cell.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA Breaks
  • DNA* / genetics
  • DNA, Single-Stranded
  • In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence / methods
  • Mammals / genetics
  • Repetitive Sequences, Nucleic Acid* / genetics

Substances

  • DNA
  • DNA, Single-Stranded