Abstract
The W-chromosome, though not conspicuous in normal metaphase chromosome preparations, can be demonstrated in early oocyte and nurse cell pachytene stages using a fluorescent Feulgen stain (BAO-S02). In such preparations, it appears as a continuously fluorescing thread, whereas Z-chromosome and autosomes give a distinct pattern of chromomeres and interchromomeres. Four γ-ray induced chromosome-fusions which had been shown genetically to include the W, combine this continuously fluorescing thread with a thread having an autosomal pattern of chromomeres, differing in the four fusion-chromosomes. Concomitantly the sex-chromatin is atypically separated into several smaller bodies in highly polyploid cells of individuals possessing these W-fusions, thus showing that sex-chromatin properties depend on the W. This abnormal behaviour of the sex-chromatin is interpreted as the result of the opposing tendencies of the autosomes to form separate chromocenters and the W-chromosome to produce a single big chromocenter during polyploidisation.
Translated title of the contribution | The W-chromosome of Ephestia kuehniella (Lepidoptera) and the derivation of the sex-chromatin |
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Original language | German |
Journal | Chromosoma |
Volume | 41 |
Issue number | 4 |
Pages (from-to) | 437-446 |
Number of pages | 10 |
ISSN | 0009-5915 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 12.1973 |
Research Areas and Centers
- Academic Focus: Center for Infection and Inflammation Research (ZIEL)