Human chromosome uncoiling and dissociation

The treatment of human chromosomes with solutions of low ionic strength produces changes in their characteristic morphology, in particular a 0.01 M solution of KCl produces uncoiling of the primary coils of the chromosome; and when the metaphase cells are allowed to rupture by air drying without fixation, the uncoiled chromosomes will dissociate into their constituent longitudinal subunits. The action of the monovalent salt KC1 is reduced in the presence of the divalent salts CaCl2 or MgCl2; and if the proper balance between the divalent and monovalent salts is maintained, the uncoiling and dissociation of the chromosomes is entirely prevented.

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