Preparation, culture, and analysis of amniotic fluid samples

The Basic Protocol describes an in situ method for the preparation, culture, harvest, and analysis of amniotic fluid samples. In this procedure, cells are grown and harvested for metaphase spreads on glass coverslips. The metaphase spreads are analyzed without being removed from the coverslips. Support Protocol 1 describes a harvesting technique that yields higher-resolution banding. Support Protocol 2 describes a method for growing more cells by passaging cells from a backup monolayer culture. An Alternate Protocol describes a flask method for the preparation, culture, harvest, and analysis of amniotic fluid samples that can be used instead of the in situ method. Accompanying Alternate Protocol is Support Alternate Protocol 3 that describes subculturing cells from flasks.