Cytogenetic Technology

Cytogenetic technologists study the structure of human chromosomes and the role of specific changes in the diagnosis and monitoring of acquired and inherited abnormalities.

Degree and Certificate Offered

The School of Health Professions offers the following programs in Cytogenetic Technology:

• Bachelor of Science Degree: Cytogenetic Technology

The programs are administered by:

• Dean: Michael J. Ahearn, Ph.D.
• Program Director: Vicki L. Hopwood, M.S., CLSp (CG), CLDir (NCA)
• Education Coordinator: Jun Gu, M.S., CLSp (CG)
• Clinical Coordinator: Ming Zhao, M.D., CLSp (CG)
• Medical Advisor: Lynne V. Abruzzo, M.D., Ph.D.

Roster of Faculty

Objectives

The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Program of Cytogenetic Technology is designed to prepare students to become entry-level clinical cytogenetic technologists. The program provides instruction and training in all the major areas of clinical cytogenetics, including prenatal cytogenetics; cancer cytogenetics, including leukemias, lymphomas and solid tumors; and molecular techniques. The curriculum includes didactic training followed by directed clinical training at affiliated hospitals and laboratories. Students enter the program to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree.

Cytogenetic technologists study the structure of human chromosomes and the role of specific changes in the diagnosis and monitoring of acquired and inherited abnormalities.

Abnormalities of chromosome number and morphology are linked with over 400 syndromes associated with mental retardation and other phenotypic abnormalities. Identification of these chromosomal abnormalities by cytogenetic technologists provides clinicians in prenatal clinics with sufficient information to plan for medical complications that may arise from specific gene defects. In cancer clinics, cytogenetics is used to confirm diagnosis as well as determine treatment plans.

Cancer cytogenetics is a rapidly growing field where the cytogeneticist plays a key role in the diagnosis and prognosis of both hematological malignancies and solid tumors. World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines require either cytogenetics or molecular genetics for standard workup of leukemias and lymphomas.

Cytogenetic technologists are leaders in the development of applications for new DNA technologies that are transforming modern-day medicine.

DNA probe technology is widely used in both prenatal and cancer cytogenetics. Cytogeneticists use molecular DNA techniques and computer imaging to augment standard cytogenetic investigation. DNA probes hybridized to human chromosomes provide information to scientists and clinicians about gene location, deletion, rearrangement, or amplification.

As the Human Genome Project leads to the discovery of an increasing number of genes important in human disease processes, cytogeneticists will play an ever-increasing role in diagnostic patient care.

Cytogenetic technologists have a wide range of career options. They are employed in cancer centers, pediatric and genetic counseling clinics, chemical industries, biotechnology companies, research laboratories, molecular cytogenetic laboratories, computer imaging sales and development, pathology labs and research and teaching institutions. Some combine administrative and managerial talent with their cytogenetic technology background to become laboratory or hospital administrators.

Nonacademic Requirements

In addition to the nonacademic requirements for all students (see Admission policy), each student in the Cytogenetic Technology program must be able to:

Visually identify cellular components and microorganisms using a microscope.

Discriminate and visually interpret reactions on slides and plates and in test tubes.

Demonstrate the manual dexterity required to process specimens; operate, maintain and repair laboratory equipment; and carry out all aspects of laboratory testing procedures.

Ambulate sufficiently to collect blood specimens from patients throughout the hospital in an established time frame.

Requirements for Admission

The Bachelor of Science degree is either a one-year or two-year program with entry at either the junior or senior level. Application and supporting documents may be submitted to the Office of the Registrar. Qualified students are accepted on a rolling basis; first deadline by February 1; final deadline by April 1.

Bachelor of Science Degree

Applicants to the Cytogenetic Technology program leading to the Bachelor of Science degree must satisfy several requirements for admission:

All prerequisite courses must be acceptable as credit for a baccalaureate degree and required science courses must be lecture and laboratory courses acceptable toward degrees by majors in those fields of study and cannot be survey courses.

Physical education and military science courses are not acceptable for prerequisite credit.

Each candidate for a baccalaureate degree must complete a minimum of 135 semester credit hours of course work. Within this requirement, students must complete the following at M. D. Anderson:

• At least 40 semester hours of advanced (3000/4000) course work,
• At least 25% of the total semester credit hours required must be taken at M. D. Anderson

A minimum grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale both overall and in science and mathematics courses is required in all previous college work.

Note also the following requirements:

Texas Success Initiative (TSI) - All applicants must provide proof of successful assessment of the Texas Success Initiative (TSI). Applicants who have graduated with an associate or baccalaureate degree from an accredited Texas College or University are exempt from TSI. Proof of an applicant's readiness to enroll in college level coursework will be determined by the Registrar's Office based upon review of official transcripts from previously attended institutions.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - Applicants from countries where English is not the native language may be required to take the TOEFL. Internet based TOEFL is now available and a total test score ranging from 74-78 with a minimum score of 18 in each section is required.

Prerequisites for the two-year program: a minimum of 60 semester credit hours (SCH) that must include courses described in parts A & B below.

Prerequisites for the one-year program: a minimum of 90 semester credit hours (SCH) that must include all courses described in parts A & B below as well as 3-4 hours Microbiology and 3-4 hours Genetics.

Part A. The Texas Core Curriculum – 42 semester credit hours (SCH) that must include the following specific courses:

Part B. Minimum of 18 additional semester credit hours (SCH) required for entry into the two-year program for Cytogenetic Technology.

Courses must include:

• Biological Sciences: minimum 8 SCH, including Biology I & II OR Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II
  
• Chemistry: minimum 16 SCH, General Chemistry I & II (4 and 4), Organic Chemistry I (4 hours) and Organic Chemistry II (4) OR Biochemistry ( 3 or 4)
  

Recommended electives: molecular biology, problem solving, basic research techniques, computer science.

Factors considered in the selection of applicants include cumulative grade point average, science and mathematics grade point averages, personal statement (including career goals, interests and honors), three letters of recommendation and a personal interview.

Students without a baccalaureate degree who are admitted to the Cytogenetic Technology program are candidates for the baccalaureate degree conferred by The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.

Students with a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university may receive a second baccalaureate degree from The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center by meeting the requirements outlined above.

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Advanced Placement

The School of Health Professions accepts and/or awards credit through the following examination programs:

• College level examination program of the College Board
• Comprehensive departmental examinations
• Regionally accredited military training programs

Recommendations from the School's academic departments are followed with regard to minimum score requirements, level of credit and amount of credit to be awarded. Program faculty are consulted to determine if credit recommendations equate to specific School of Health Professions (SHP) courses. The internal comprehensive departmental examination program provides a local means for establishing knowledge of SHS course content in areas not covered by the above examination program. Programs may elect to administer examinations that cover material specific to SHS courses with the results being reported to the Registrar.

Graduation

Graduation occurs mid August. Upon graduation, students are eligible to take the national certification exam for Clinical Laboratory Specialist in Cytogenetics given by the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel, Inc. (NCA). Please check with the program director for application deadlines and exam dates. Upon passing this exam, the student is considered a certified cytogenetic technologist. The awarding of the degree or certificate is not contingent upon a student passing the national certification exam.

Curriculum

This intensive program is composed of a didactic phase followed by directed clinical training at affiliated hospitals and laboratories. During the didactic phase, formal lectures are presented on the principles of medical genetics, molecular and biochemical basis of genetic disease, karyotyping, hematology, clinical cytogenetics and molecular genetic technology. Laboratory sessions coordinated to lectures and covering the fundamentals of diagnostic laboratory procedures are included in the didactic phase.

The Cytogenetic Technology Program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Graduates of the program are eligible to take the CLSp(CG) national certifying examination.

Affiliations

The Program in Cytogenetic Technology has developed clinical affiliations with leading clinical cytogenetic laboratories in order that students may develop expertise in a variety of settings and experience the breadth of opportunity available to Cytogenetic Technologists.

Current Affiliations

• Houston, TX: Center for Medical Genetics, Dynagene (LabCorp), Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children’s Hospita
• Dallas, TX: The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
• San Antonio, TX: The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
• Chicago, IL: The University of Chicago
• Chicago, IL: Rush Hospital
• Fort Meyers, FL: NeoGenomics Inc
• Santa Fe, NM: Genzyme Corporation
• Temple, TX: Scott and White Clinic
• Shreveport LA: Louisiana State University

Clinical experiences in these laboratories offer students the opportunity to achieve competence and confidence in performing a wide variety of cytogenetic procedures on patients' specimens.

*For incoming students without these courses

Course Descriptions

CC 4120 Introduction to G-band Karyotyping (1 semester credit hour)
A detailed study of human G-banded chromosomes. Includes instruction in banding pattern recognition, polymorphic variation, determination of band level and the International System for Human Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN). Includes classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Laboratory fee of $30.00

CC 4152 Prenatal Cytogenetics (1 semester credit hour)
A study of indications for prenatal diagnosis and the procedures used to obtain specimens for such diagnoses: ultrasonography, cordocentesis, amniocentesis and CVS; biochemical assays for metabolic diseases; problems encountered in prenatal chromosome analysis; teratology; and explanations and demonstrations of prenatal cytogenetic techniques and procedures.
Prerequisite: CC 4120, CC 4350

CC 4181 Independent Research Project II (one semester credit hour) (1 semester credit hour)
Continuation of an independent study that may be a case study analysis, laboratory test procedure evaluation, or investigation of a laboratory problem. Includes a paper, poster and oral presentation.
Prerequisite: CC 4280

CC 4240 Advanced Cytogenetic Laboratory Techniques (2 semester credit hours)
A comprehensive study of the cytogenetic analysis of solid tumors. Course includes the study of tumor origin and development, mechanisms of transformation in carcinogenesis and random versus nonrandom findings in human solid tumors. The student will also study the mutagenic effects derived from lifestyle and environmental factors as they relate to malignant disease. This course combines both lecture and laboratory experience into one integrated learning experience. Lab fee of $30.00.
Prerequisite: GT 4230, CC 4531

CC 4280 Independent Research Project I (2 semester credit hours)
An independent study that may be a case study analysis, laboratory test procedure evaluation, or investigation of a laboratory problem. Includes a literature review and data collection.

CC 4320 Special Topics in Genetics (3 semester credit hours)
This course will introduce the student to the newest methodologies and topics in genetics. Current topics include spectral karyotyping, creation of bac clone FISH probes, DNA sequencing, array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and use of online genetic databases.
Prerequisite: HS 4110

CC 4350 Clinical Cytogenetics (3 semester credit hours)
A comprehensive study of chromosome morphology and terminology, general principles of clinical cytogenetics, abnormalities of chromosome number and structure, disorders of autosomes, sex chromosome disorders, the X chromosome, the Y chromosome, congenital versus acquired abnormalities and the ISCN. Laboratory fee of $30.00.
Prerequisite: GT 4300, GT 4210

CC 4390 Advanced Topics in Cytogenetics (3 semester credit hours)
This will be a capstone course where students work on case studies to develop their problem solving skills in a clinical cytogenetic environment. Students will also participate in a national review in clinical cytogenetics. Finally, students will show mastery of the field of cytogenetics through practice exams and eventually taking a comprehensive cytogenetic exam.
Prerequisite: GT 4300, GT 4210

CC 4521 Prenatal/Postnatal Cytogenetics Clinical Laboratory Rotation (5 semester credit hours)
This laboratory rotation complements, expounds on and practically applies the study of cytogenetic procedures and techniques used in prenatal and postnatal diagnosis of chromosomal disorders. This laboratory rotation also provides the students an opportunity to observe and participate in the testing algorithms and reflex testing that occur in this type of cytogenetic testing environment. Laboratory fee of $30.00
Prerequisite: CC 4350, CC 4152

CC 4530 Basic Laboratory Techniques (5 semester credit hours)
A comprehensive study of maintaining laboratory quality control in accordance with federal, state and local regulations, as well as College of American Pathologist on-site inspections and proficiency testing. Also, a study of laboratory skills as they apply to amniotic fluid, chorionic villus sampling, abortus tissue, blood, bone marrow and solid tissue samples with respect to transporting, preparing, culturing, harvesting, banding, analyzing, photographing, karyotyping and reporting final results of specimens. Students will also be instructed in fluorescent in situ hybridization techniques and computer imaging of cytogenetic specimens. Laboratory fee of $30.00.
Prerequisite: GT 4300

CC 4531 Hematological Cytogenetics Clinical Laboratory Rotation (5 semester credit hours)
This laboratory rotation provides the student with comprehensive practical applications in all aspects of the cytogenetic study of hematological malignant disease: specimen preparation, culture and harvest, banding techniques, microscopic cell analysis, photographic techniques, karyotype preparation, evaluation, probe application and ISCN. Quality control procedures and safety considerations are stressed. Laboratory fee of $30.00.
Prerequisite: CC 4230

GT 4151 Statistics (1 semester credit hour)
This course is designed for genetic technologists who need to interpret both DNA evidence and nonrandom chromosome abnormalities. The essential elements of statistics and population genetics for these purposes will be covered.
Prerequisite: CC 4350

GT 4160 Genetic Technology Journal Club I (1 semester credit hour)
Seminar-based course covering topics in cytogenetics and related fields.

GT 4161 Genetic Technology Journal Club II (1 semester credit hour)
Seminar-based course covering topics in cytogenetics and related fields.

GT 4210 Molecular and Biochemical Basis of Genetic Disease (2 semester credit hours)
A comprehensive study of inherited disease through examination of genetic mutations in the hemoglobinopathies, enzymopathies and various structural proteins. This course provides the framework for understanding the relationships between the molecular defect and the nature of its clinical pathology.
Corequisite: GT 4300

GT 4330 Genetics of Hematological Disease (3 semester credit hours)
A comprehensive study of the principles and procedures used in the genetic analysis of peripheral blood and bone marrow in the study of malignant processes. The course emphasizes the genetic abnormalities occurring in leukemias and lymphomas and their clinical significance. Students will learn a multidisciplinary approach in the interpretation of disease diagnosis, prognosis and progression by learning how to integrate morphology, pathlogy and flow test results together with genetic changes.
Corequisite: GT 4140 CC 4350

GT 4300 Advanced Medical Genetics (3 semester credit hours)
A study of the role of genetics in medicine. This course will allow the students to understand the basic genetic priciples and their applications in clinical genetics. This course focuses on applying genetic principle in real clinical situations.

HS 3101 Basic Techniques Laboratory (1 semester credit hour)
An introduction to basic clinical laboratory skills common to all diagnostic programs. Emphasis on proper use of pipettors and micropipettors, sterile techniques, laboratory safety, chemical storage and proper waste disposal, calibration and use of balances, centrifuges and spectrophotometers, serial dilutions, making buffers from stocks, microscopy and slide making. (Admission to Program)

HS 3102 Molecular Techniques Laboratory (1 semester credit hour)
A study of the laboratory skills involved in transporting, preparing and reporting final results of specimens that include blood, bone marrow and solid tissue samples. The course will provide participants with hands-on laboratory experience in: performing molecular techniques such as DNA extraction, purification and quantification; preparing and viewing PCR products and DNA fingerprints via gel electrophoresis and bacterial transformation. (Admission to Program)

HS 3254 Immunohistochemistry (2 semester credit hours)
A comprehensive course that deals with the fundamentals of immunohistochemistry as applied to the theory and practical techniques in histopathology. The students acquire basic knowledge of how immunology is applied in the development of immunohistochemistry reagents and techniques. Emphasis will be placed on the clinical significance of diagnostic and prognostic indicators used in immunohistochemistry techniques. Troubleshooting and standardization of reagents are emphasized. (Admission to Program)

HS 3300 Immunology (3 semester credit hours)
This course focuses on the basic concepts in immunology. General properties of immune responses; cells and tissues of immune system; lymphocyte activation and specificity; effector mechanisms; immunity to microbes; immunodeficiency and AIDS; autoimmune diseases; transplantation. Course delivery a blend of lecture and on line, self-paced activities. . (Admission to Program)

HS 3320 Medical Genetics (3 semester credit hours)
A study of the role of genetics in medicine, mendelian genetics, multifactorial inheritance, DNA structure, chromosome structure, population genetics, mutation rates, ethnicity of disease and genetic mapping. A comprehensive review of the cell cycle, mitosis, meiosis and pedigree analysis is incorporated as well. . (Admission to Program)

HS 3330 Pathology of Body Fluids (3 semester credit hours)
A study of the anatomy and physiology of the kidney and the formation, elimination and composition of urine. Various body fluids (CSF, Synovial, Plural, Serous, etc.) will be study and associations made with various disease states. Interpretation of urinary and body fluids elements, chemical assays and the correlation with normal and abnormal physiology. Course delivery a blend of lecture and on line, self-paced activities. . (Admission to Program)

HS 3340 Research Methods (3 semester credit hours)
The Research Seminar course will introduce the basic language and concepts of empirical research with emphasis on the applicability of research methodology in the area of clinical laboratory sciences. Students will have opportunity to learn how to search the peer-reviewed journal databases available to them through the Research Library. They will then critique and review their references and learn how to make an outline and write a literature review on their assigned topic. Curriculum will include a blend of lectures, a weekly journal club presented by area scientists and in-class, self-paced activities.

HS 3410 Introduction to Diagnostic Sciences (4 semester credit hours)
This course is an introduction to medical terminology. Emphasis is on word roots, prefixes, suffixes, spelling and analysis of unfamiliar terms. Additional background information on the anatomy that relates to various body systems will be discussed. Included is a review of the principles of mathematics and statistics used in clinical laboratories. Course presentation includes introduction to the operation of a laboratory information system. Course delivery is on-line, interactive, self-paced. (Admission to Program)

HS 4100 Issues in Health Care Ethics (1 semester credit hour)
This course content is designed to establish a foundation and set parameters of professional practice for health care professionals. The emphasis will be on developing the background for the resolution of ethical dilemmas through ethical reasoning, ethical obligations in health professional-patient relationships and just allocation of scarce health care resources.

HS 4101 Diversity and Cultural Competence (1 semester credit hour)
This course content is designed to create an awareness of ethnocentrism and a beginning understanding of cultural similarities and diversity. It provides the student with knowledge of the concepts of cultural relativity, cultural integration and variation in cultural values, organization and institutions.

HS 4110 Molecular Genetics Technology (1 semester credit hour)
The study of clinical laboratory molecular diagnostic procedures utilizing recombinant DNA technology and its application to the many aspects of the clinical laboratory.
Prerequisite: GT 4230, CC 4531

HS 4170 Special Topics I (1 semester credit hour)
A review of the principles of mathematics and statistics used in the clinical laboratories. Course presentation includes introduction to the selection and operation of a laboratory information system.

HS 4300 Pathophysiology (3 semester credit hours)
This course is designed to provide basic knowledge in pathophysiology in preparation for professional studies in the health sciences. Topic covered includes central concepts of pathophysiology of the cells and tissues and alterations on organs and systems with an emphasis on carcinogenesis. Appropriate diagnostic and treatment procedures are covered.

HS 4371 Management and Education (3 semester credit hours)
This course covers laboratory management and educational methodologies. It includes management and motivational theories, communication skills, regulatory and accreditation requirements, budget and strategic planning, curriculum design and examination instruction. Course delivery is on-line, interactive, self-paced.

HS 4510 Medical Microbiology (5 semester credit hours)
Study of the utilization of morphological, biochemical, serological, disease inducing characteristics for microorganism, fungi, mycobacterium and virus identification. Course delivery a blend of lecture and on line, self-paced activities.

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