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High resolution analysis of interphase chromosome domains
A E Visser1, F Jaunin, S Fakan
1Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Center for Microscopical Research, Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Journal of Cell Science
|June 23, 2000
Summary
High-resolution electron microscopy reveals distinct chromosome territories in interphase nuclei. Chromosomes form discrete domains, with limited DNA intermingling, suggesting potential chromosome-chromosome interactions.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Genetics
- Microscopy
Background:
- Understanding interphase chromosome organization is crucial for exploring nuclear function.
- High-resolution visualization of chromosome territories is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To visualize chromosome territories and subchromosomal domains at high resolution using electron microscopy.
- To analyze the spatial organization of chromosomes within interphase nuclei.
Main Methods:
- In vivo labeling of Chinese hamster fibroblast DNA with bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU).
- Chromosome segregation over several cell cycles to isolate nuclei with few labeled chromosomes.
- Immunocytochemical detection of BrdU for electron microscopy analysis.
Main Results:
- First high-resolution visualization of chromosomes in interphase nuclei.
- Demonstrated discrete chromosome territories separated by interchromatin space.
- Showed limited DNA intermingling between adjacent chromosome territories, implying interactions.
Conclusions:
- Chromosomes form distinct territories in interphase nuclei.
- Adjacent chromosomes can be in contact, suggesting functional interactions.
- Interchromatin space forms channels around and through territories, potentially involved in nuclear functions.