Characterization of a de novo t(Y;9) (q11.2;q22) by FISH technique

A new case with a de novo translocation involving the long arms of chromosomes Y and 9 i.e. 46, X, t(Y;9) (q11.2;q22) was noted in a phenotypically normal male as revealed by GTG technique and subsequently confirmed using dual color whole chromosome painting probes. Since the Yq11.2 region was involved in the translocation the fecundity status of the individual has been questioned. Previous cases with (Y;autosomal) translocations have produced males with azoospermia, a variety of male gamete deformities and idiopathic sterility. The azoospermic factor (AZF) on the distal Yq11 band, which apparently controls spermatogenesis, may have been adversely affected due to a microdeletion, rearrangement or complete loss as a result of the translocation mechanism. Testicular histological and fertility tests of the proband at a postpubescent age will reveal the status. The sex determining region (SRY) on the Yp, which has been equated with the testis determining factor (TDF), is believed to be intact. Dual color whole chromosome painting probes, which served as an important adjunct to GTG banding, increased the degree of certainty for the characterization of the involved translocation. A concise review of balanced (Y ; autosome) translocation cases are annotated here.