Whole mount electron microscopy of human meiotic chromosomes

Abstract

Human meiotic chromosomes were examined by whole mount electron microscopy. The synapsed bivalents and synaptonemal complex in pachytene cells were readily visualized. The chromatin fibers attach to the lateral element of the synaptonemal complex and radiate laterally. When the water spread cells were treated with DNase the chromatin could be washed away leaving intact the proteinaceous synaptonemal complex, including the central element. This technique may be of value in studying individuals with translocation chromosomes.