Micronuclei with multiple copies of the X chromosome: do chromosomes replicate in micronuclei?

Mutat Res. 2004 Oct 4;554(1-2):89-94. doi: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2004.03.004.

Abstract

The formation of a micronucleus due to chromosome lagging is a well known mechanism of chromosomal loss. However, the post-mitotic fate of the micronucleus and the chromosomal DNA within it is poorly understood. We observed micronuclei (MN) that had multiple copies of the X chromosome (ranging from 4 to 10) when analyzing cultured human lymphocytes using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). A possible mechanism for this observation is that the chromosome(s) or chromatid(s) contained within the micronuclei successfully completed one or more cycles of replication after their expulsion from the primary nucleus.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Chromosome Banding
  • Chromosomes, Human, X*
  • Humans
  • In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence
  • Micronuclei, Chromosome-Defective / ultrastructure*