The 3D Topography of Mitotic Chromosomes

Split sister axes of mitotic chromosomes are linked by “mini-axis” bridges that provide mechanical stability. Existence of bridges precludes helical chromosome coiling. Instead, unsplit prophase linear loop/axis arrays, with deformed axes comprising sequential half-helical segments of alternating handedness (perversions), undergo lateral splitting a nd then compact via simple linear shortening.

Source: Molecular Cell - August 6, 2020 Category: Cytology Authors: Lingluo Chu, Zhangyi Liang, Maria Mukhina, Jay Fisher, Nadine Vincenten, Zheng Zhang, John Hutchinson, Denise Zickler, Nancy Kleckner Tags: Article Source Type: research