What are Lampbrush Chromosomes?
Lampbrush chromosomes are different from the usual chromosomes. They are the largest known chromosomes found in the developing oocytes of most animals, except mammals. Lampbrush chromosomes are also called diplotene chromosomes because they are formed during the diplotene stage of prophase 1 of meiosis cell division due to the active transcription of many genes.
These chromosomes are seen during the early prophase stage and are bivalent, having two conjugating homologues joined at chiasmata. They are found in the developing oocytes of most animals (except mammals).
Lampbrush Chromosome
Lampbrush Chromosomes are large, meiotic chromosomes primarily observed in the oocytes of amphibians and birds. They were first described by Walther Flemming and Ruckert in 1882. They are characterized by extended lateral loops resembling a brush, they reveal actively transcribing genes during crucial stages of oogenesis. These chromosomes play a pivotal role in synthesizing RNA necessary for early embryonic development. Their unique structure allows detailed investigation of gene expression. In this article, we will read about Lampbrush Chromosomes, its structure, importance, and functions.
Table of Content
- Define Lampbrush Chromosomes
- What are Lampbrush Chromosomes?
- Diagram of Lampbrush Chromosome
- Structure of Lampbrush Chromosome
- Types of Lampbrush Chromosomes
- Importance of Lampbrush Chromosome
- Functions of Lampbrush Chromosome
- Diseases associated with Lampbrush chromosomes
- Difference between Lampbrush and Polytene Chromosomes