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Polytene Chromosomes

Polytene Chromosomes

Polytene chromosomes are giant interphase chromosomes with several DNA strands placed side by side. They were discovered in the year 1881 by Balbiani in salivary glands, intestine, muscles, malpighian tubules, and hypoderm of larvae Chironomus plumosus. Hence, these are also called "Salivary gland chromosomes." These are found in insects of the order Diptera and Collembola; in certain organs of mammals; and synergids, antipodes of flowering plants. Polytene chromosomes are also regularly...

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Describing the number and physical features of chromosomes can reveal abnormalities that underlie genetic diseases. This description is facilitated by special staining techniques that produce a particular banding pattern on each chromosome. State-of-the-art techniques make this approach even more powerful, enabling the detection of individual genes that cause disease.A Simple Chromosome Staining Technique Provides Valuable Scientific InsightSome genetic diseases can be detected by looking at...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Immunofluorescent Staining for Visualization of Heterochromatin Associated Proteins in Drosophila Salivary Glands

Immunofluorescent Staining for Visualization of Heterochromatin Associated Proteins in Drosophila Salivary Glands

Published on: August 21, 2021

Mapping protein distributions on polytene chromosomes by immunostaining.

|March 2, 2011

Summary

This study details a high-resolution method for mapping protein distributions on Drosophila polytene chromosomes. The protocol involves chromosome preparation, immunostaining for specific proteins, and counterstaining for clear visualization.

Area of Science:

Cytogenetics
Molecular Biology
Developmental Biology

Background:

Polytene chromosomes in Drosophila larvae offer a unique model system for high-resolution analysis.
Understanding chromosomal protein distribution is crucial for gene regulation and developmental studies.

Purpose of the Study:

To provide a detailed protocol for preparing and analyzing Drosophila polytene chromosomes.
To enable high-resolution mapping of specific protein distributions on polytene chromosomes.

Main Methods:

Isolation and preparation of polytene chromosomes from Drosophila larvae.
Immunostaining techniques to detect proteins of interest.
Counterstaining using Giemsa and Hoechst dyes for chromosomal visualization.

More Related Videos

High-throughput Physical Mapping of Chromosomes using Automated in situ Hybridization

High-throughput Physical Mapping of Chromosomes using Automated in situ Hybridization

Published on: June 28, 2012

Preparation of Drosophila Polytene Chromosome Squashes for Antibody Labeling

Preparation of Drosophila Polytene Chromosome Squashes for Antibody Labeling

Published on: February 9, 2010

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Immunofluorescent Staining for Visualization of Heterochromatin Associated Proteins in Drosophila Salivary Glands

Immunofluorescent Staining for Visualization of Heterochromatin Associated Proteins in Drosophila Salivary Glands

Published on: August 21, 2021

High-throughput Physical Mapping of Chromosomes using Automated in situ Hybridization

High-throughput Physical Mapping of Chromosomes using Automated in situ Hybridization

Published on: June 28, 2012

Preparation of Drosophila Polytene Chromosome Squashes for Antibody Labeling

Preparation of Drosophila Polytene Chromosome Squashes for Antibody Labeling

Published on: February 9, 2010

Main Results:

The protocol allows for precise localization of chromosomal proteins.
High-resolution mapping of protein distributions is achievable.

Conclusions:

This method is effective for detailed analysis of protein localization on polytene chromosomes.
The protocol facilitates further research into gene regulation and chromosome structure.