Question

The meiotic process by which homologous chromosomes are paired, during prophase I is called as

• A. Interkinesis
• B. Crossing over
• C. Chiasma
• D. Synapsis

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Homologous chromosomes pair in a process called as synapsis during zygotene phase of prophase I of meiosis I. It allows matching-up of homologous pairs prior to their segregation and possible chromosomal crossover between them. Synapsis takes place during prophase I of meiosis. When homologous chromosomes synapse, their ends are first attached to the nuclear envelope. These end-membrane complexes then migrate, assisted by the extranuclear cytoskeleton, until matching ends have been paired. Then the intervening regions of the chromosome are brought together, and may be connected by a protein-RNA complex .