Chromatid cores in meiotic chromosome structure and segregation

Abstract

There is an extensive literature concerning the structure of mitotic chromosomes and the participation of proteinaceous axial structures, the chromatid cores, in their organization. However, the involvement of the chromatid cores in the structure and segregation of meiotic chromosomes is less known. This chapter reviews the occurrence and behaviour of the chromatid cores in condensed meiotic chromosomes, particularly in grasshopper species. We present current models that relate chromatid cores with the lateral elements of the synaptonemal complex, a tripartite structure present along synapsed homologues during the pachytene stage of prophase I. Additionally, we summarize recent data about the relationship between the chromatid cores, DNA topoisomerase IIα condensin and cohesin complexes. © 2007 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.