Nucleolar organizer regions (NORs) in Chinese hamster chromosomes as visualized by Coomasie brilliant blue

Abstract

Nucleolar oragnizer regions (NORs) of Chinese hamster chromosomes have been demonstrated by using a Coomasie brilliant blue dye (CBB) method. The staining procedure involved is simple and the results are reproducible. The staining process is easily controllable because over-staining of the chromosomes seldom occurs. The CBB solution is stable (pH 3) and can be used for many days at room temperature. Contrary to the silver technique, the stained material in the NORs is resistant to acid extraction. Since it is sensitive to trypsin treatment, it is suggested that the CBB stained material is protein in nature.