Internal ultrastructure of human chromosomes.

By preparing metaphase chromosome spreads on Aclar (polychlorotrifluoroethylene fluoropolymer) film and incorporating a conventional karyotyping system, it was possible to observe the internal ultrastructure of individual chromosomes with known karyotype by means of transmission electron microscopy. Essentially, all 46 chromosomes per human cell could be examined. Application of this method to chromosome research may provide comprehensive information on ultrastructural morphology of chromosomes from various cell types and on the fine structure of different chromosomal regions in relation to function.