Characterization of G-banded chromosomes of the Indian muntjac and progression of banding patterns through different stages of condensation

Muntjac prophase and metaphase chromosomes were G-banded following methotrexate-mediated synchronization of peripheral lymphocytes. Bands and subbands were characterized from prophase through metaphase, and the progression of band patterns from late prophase to mid-metaphase was analyzed. Extended prophase chromosomes exhibited more bands and subbands, a number of which became fused with each other, giving rise to fewer and thicker bands in the condensed metaphase chromosomes. It appeared that the dark bands condensed relatively more than the light bands. Precise delineation of the bands and subbands on extended prophase chromosomes and the usage of a proposed banding pattern nomenclature should aid in better detection and localization of induced chromosomal rearrangements with this extremely useful experimental material.