Application of the FISH Technique to Visualize Sex Chromosomes in Domestic Cat Spermatozoa

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The study was conducted with the aim of visualizing sex chromosomes in domestic cat sperm. Our research was carried out using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) technique and the microscopic analysis showed the presence of X and Y chromosomes in domestic cat spermatozoa. The procedure used for sperm decondensation and FISH is adequate to visualize chromosomes in domestic cat sperm. ABSTRACT: Fluorescence in situ hybridization is a molecular cytogenetics technique that enables the visualization of chromosomes in cells via fluorescently labeled molecular probes specific to selected chromosomes. Despite difficulties in carrying out the FISH technique on sperm, related to the need for proper nuclear chromatin decondensation, this technique has already been used to visualize chromosomes in human, mouse, cattle, swine, horse, and dog spermatozoa. Until now, FISH has not been performed on domestic cat sperm; therefore, the aim of this study was to visualize sex chromosomes in domestic cat sperm. The results showed the presence of X and Y chromosomes in feline spermatozoa. The procedure used for sperm decondensation and fluorescence in situ hybridization was adequate to visualize chromosomes in domestic cat spermatozoa and, in the future, it may be used to determine the degree of chromosomal abnormalities in these gametes.