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The ultrastructure of human mitotic chromosomes and interphase nuclei treated by Giemsa banding techniques

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Abstract

Total preparations of mitotic chromosomes and interphase nuclei prepared as for Giemsa banding techniques were investigated by standard transmission electron microscopy and by a method of a three dimensional representation. Chromosomes as well as interphase nuclei appear to be composed of irregularely folded fibrils of at least 300 Å thickness. In the G-band regions the chromosomes are thicker containing more foldings of fibrils. Also the fibrils are darker stained in the G-band regions. Loops of fibrils stick out from chromosomes as well as from interphase nuclei. When chromosomes or interphase nuclei come to lie close enough, such loops may stick together and form fibrillar bridges between them. These as well as interchromatid bridges are considered to be artefacts. The fibrils seem to be built up either of one or of several finer fibrils. No further conclusions regarding the fine structure of the fibrils can be drawn.

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Ruzicka, F., Schwarzacher, H.G. The ultrastructure of human mitotic chromosomes and interphase nuclei treated by Giemsa banding techniques. Chromosoma 46, 443–454 (1974). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00331632

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