Chromosome Structure, Staining, and Naming

A single molecule of DNA spools around histone protein cores forming bead like structures called nucleosomes. Between each nucleosome is a sequence of DNA termed “linker DNA.” The amino acids associated with histones are lysine and arginine. The super coiled form is compacted and can be visualized as a karyotype in laboratory testing.

The centromere is the connection point of the duplicated chromosome, while telomeres are the endpoints. The short arm of the chromosome is termed “p” and the long arm of the chromosome is termed “q.” If we take these two chromosome arms into consideration, there are three types of chromosome morphology:

• Metacentric – Chromosome arms are equal in length
• Sub-centric – One arm is longer than the other
• Acro-centric / Telocentric – One arm is extremely small or even missing

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Chromosome Structure, Staining, and Naming

 Source: A blog for medical laboratory professionals