Arrangement of chromosomes in the interphase nucleus of plants

Abstract

Chromosomal arrangement in the interphase nucleus has two main aspects: (1) arrangement of chromosomes with respect to nuclear polarity and to other nuclear components, and (2) arrangement of chromosomes with respect to one another. The latter aspect consists of two main types of spatial relationships; (a) relationships between different members of one chromosomal set, (b) relationships between different chromosomal sets. Data concerning various aspects of chromosomal arrangement in the interphase nucleus are presented and discussed and the genetic control as well as subcellular mechanisms which are involvled in nuclear organization, are elucidated. Evidence is presented indicating that, in common wheat, the gene system that determines the specific pattern of chromosomal arrangement in the nucleus is operating via the microtubular elements of the spindle system. The significance of ordered arrangement of chromosomes in the nucleus for the regularity of genetic activity and chromosomal behavior, is pointed out.