Dictionary > Synaptonemal complex

Synaptonemal complex

Definition
noun, plural: synaptonemal complexes
A complex protein structure that spans the region between the paired homologous chromosomes in prophase I of meiosis I
Supplement
Meiosis is form of cell division that gives rise to genetically diverse sex cells or gametes. It is comprised to two successive nuclear divisions namely meiosis I and meiosis II. Meiosis I is comprised of four stages: prophase I, metaphase I, anaphase I, and telophase I. Prophase I is the first stage and consists of the following sub-stages: leptotene, zygotene, pachytene, diplotene and diakinesis.
The synaptonemal complex is a zipper-like proteinaceous structure that is formed during prophase I of meiosis I. It is evident particularly during the zygotene stage. Prior to zygotene, the chromosomes begin to condense and at this stage the chromomeres become more discernible as beadlike structures along the chromosome. These chromomeres aid in the pairing of homologous chromosomes. The complete pairing or coming together of homologous chromosomes (called synapsis) takes place in zygotene. Synapsis may be facilitated by the synaptonemal complex. The complex aids in the stabilization of the pairing of homologous chromosomes and promotes the formation of chromosomal crossovers.1
Abbreviation / Acronym: SC
Variant:

  • synaptinemal complex

See also:

  • meiosis
  • meiosis I
  • prophase I
  • zygotene
  • Reference(s):

    1 Heyting, C. (1996). Synaptonemal complexes: structure and function. Curr Opin Cell Biol. 8(3):389-96.


    You will also like...

    mRNA
    Protein Synthesis

    Part of the genetic information is devoted to the synthesis of proteins. mRNA, a type of RNA, is produced as a transcri..

    dinosaurs
    The Dinosaurs

    Dinosaurs represented a major turn in the evolutionary development of organisms on Earth. The first dinosaurs were presu..

    Endemic Flora of New Zealand
    New Zealand’s Unique Flora

    If New Zealand has lots of unique animals, it's also got a whole lot of unique plants. Find out more about some of them,..

    Still freshwater and plants
    Still Freshwater & Plants

    Plants in lentic habitats have features not found in terrestrial plants. They acquired these features as they adapt to t..

    Biological Energy
    ATP & ADP – Biological Energy

    ATP is the energy source that is typically used by an organism in its daily activities. The name is based on its structu..

    Body temperature regulation by the hypothalamus
    Temperature Regulation in Animals

    This tutorial elucidates body temperature regulation. Know the details here to learn how the body sets the body temperat..

    Related Articles...

    No related articles found

    See all Related Topics