Researchers provide proof of the helical coiling of condensed chromosomes

The iconic X-shaped organization of metaphase chromosomes is frequently presented in textbooks and other media. The drawings explain in captivating manner that the majority of genetic information is stored in chromosomes, which transmit it to the next generation. "These presentations suggest that the chromosome ultrastructure is well-understood. However, this is not the case," says Dr. Veit Schubert from IPK's chromosome structure and function research group.