Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Micromanipulation of Chromosomes in Insect Spermatocytes
Published on: October 22, 2018
A device for extraction, manipulation and stretching of DNA from single human chromosomes
Kristian H Rasmussen1, Rodolphe Marie, Jacob M Lange
1DTU Nanotech, Oersted Plads, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark.
Abstract:
We describe the structure and operation of a micro/nanofluidic device in which individual metaphase chromosomes can be isolated and processed without being displaced during exchange of reagents. The change in chromosome morphology as a result of introducing protease into the device was observed by time-lapse imaging; pressure-driven flow was then used to shunt the chromosomal DNA package into a nanoslit. A long linear DNA strand (>1.3 Mbp) was seen to stretch out from the DNA package and along the length of the nanoslit. Delivery of DNA in its native metaphase chromosome package as well as the microfluidic environment prevented DNA from shearing and will be important for preparing ultra-long lengths of DNA for nanofluidic analysis.
Related Concept Videos
DNA Isolation
DNA Isolation
Chromosome Structure
The centromere is a DNA sequence that links sister chromatids. This is also where kinetochores, protein complexes to which spindle microtubules attach, are constructed after the chromosome is replicated. The kinetochores allow the spindle microtubules to move the chromosomes within the cell during cell division.
Telomeres consist of non-coding repetitive nucleotide...
Chromatin Packaging
Chromatin Packaging
The chromatin
In combination with specialized DNA binding protein called Histones, the DNA double helix forms a compact DNA: protein complex called chromatin. The chromatin itself is further compacted into higher-order structures.
Karyotyping

