Lampbrush chromosome

[2][3][4] Chromosomes transform into the lampbrush form during the diplotene stage of meiotic prophase I due to an active transcription of many genes.

Lampbrush chromosomes are clearly visible even in the light microscope, where they are seen to be organized into a series of chromomeres with large chromatin loops extended laterally.

Continuous RNA transcription is required to maintain typical chromomere-loop structure of lampbrush chromosomes.

Lampbrush chromosomes produce a large number of mRNAs and non-coding RNAs, which are synthesized on the lateral loops.

[5][6][7] Amphibian and avian lampbrush chromosomes can be microsurgically isolated from oocyte nucleus (germinal vesicle) with either forceps or needles.