Superresolution imaging of transcription units on newt lampbrush chromosomes

Chromosome Res. 2012 Dec;20(8):1009-15. doi: 10.1007/s10577-012-9306-z.

Abstract

We have examined transcription loops on lampbrush chromosomes of the newt Notophthalmus by superresolution microscopy. Because of the favorable, essentially two-dimensional morphology of these loops, an average optical resolution in the x-y plane of about 50 nm was achieved. We analyzed the distribution of the multifunctional RNA-binding protein CELF1 on specific loops. CELF1 distribution is consistent with a model in which individual transcripts are tightly folded and hence closely packed against the loop axis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chromosomes / genetics*
  • Chromosomes / ultrastructure
  • Female
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence / methods*
  • Notophthalmus / genetics*
  • RNA Polymerase II / genetics
  • RNA Polymerase II / metabolism
  • RNA-Binding Proteins / genetics
  • RNA-Binding Proteins / metabolism
  • Transcription, Genetic*

Substances

  • RNA-Binding Proteins
  • RNA Polymerase II