Question

Describe the structure of lampbrush chromosomes. Where are they located?

Short answer

Answer: Lampbrush chromosomes have a central chromatin axis with numerous lateral loops extending from it, which are composed of decondensed chromatin and are sites of intense RNA synthesis. They also have structures called chromomeres, which contain more condensed chromatin and are transcriptionally inactive. Lampbrush chromosomes are found in the oocytes (egg cells) of some animals, mostly amphibians and birds, during the diplotene stage of the first meiotic prophase.

Step-by-step solution

1. Introduction to Lampbrush Chromosomes

Lampbrush chromosomes are a type of chromosomes found in the oocytes (egg cells) of some animals, mostly amphibians and birds. They appear during the diplotene stage of the first meiotic prophase. These chromosomes are named "lampbrush chromosomes" due to their characteristic brush-like appearance under the microscope.

2. Structure of Lampbrush Chromromosomes

Lampbrush chromosomes have a distinctive structure that consists of a central chromatin axis (made of DNA and proteins) with numerous lateral loops extending from it. These lateral loops are composed of decondensed chromatin, which is less compact and more extended than the chromatin in other chromosomes. The loops contain actively transcribed genes and are sites of intense RNA synthesis. Each loop can contain multiple transcription units, and both DNA strands are involved in transcription. In addition to the lateral loops, there are structures called "chromomeres" or bead-like structures observed along the chromatin axis. These chromomeres contain more condensed chromatin and are considered transcriptionally inactive regions.

3. Location of Lampbrush Chromosomes

Lampbrush chromosomes are located in the oocytes (egg cells) of specific animals, primarily amphibians (like frogs and salamanders) and birds. They can be found in the nucleus of these cells during the diplotene stage of the first meiotic prophase. During this phase, the homologous chromosomes partially separate, and the lampbrush appearance becomes more prominent.

4. Significance of Lampbrush Chromosomes

Lampbrush chromosomes play an essential role in the process of oogenesis (egg cell formation). Their extended structure and active transcription provide ample RNA synthesis required for early embryonic development after fertilization. The unique structure of these chromosomes, with the lateral loops and chromomeres, has aided in better understanding chromosome organization and gene regulation during the process of transcription.