Synaptonemal complex analysis in a human male carrier of a 4;6 translocation: heterosynapsis without previous homosynapsis.
Silver-stained synaptonemal complexes in surface-spread pachytene nuclei from a man, heterozygous for a reciprocal translocation, were analysed by electron microscopy. Contrary to the classically expected cross-shaped configuration, extensive non-homologous pairings were observed with asymmetrical association in the lateral elements of the non-homologous arms of the quadrivalents. A possible role of the heterosynapsis in reproductive failure is discussed.
de Perdigo
A
A
Institut d'Embryologie, Faculté de Médecine, Strasbourg, France.
Gabriel-Robez
O
O
Ratomponirina
C
C
Rumpler
Y
Y
D000328:Adult; D002871:Chromosome Banding; D002894:Chromosomes, Human, Pair 4; D002896:Chromosomes, Human, Pair 6; D006580:Genetic Carrier Screening; D006801:Humans; D007621:Karyotyping; D008297:Male; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D013573:Synaptonemal Complex; D013737:Testis / Q000648:ultrastructure; D014178:Translocation, Genetic