An improved characterization of horse (Equus caballus, 2n=64) chromosomes by using replicating G and R banding patterns

Abstract

Peripheral blood lymphocytes were cultured and treated for early- and late-BrdU incorporation to perform replicating G- and R-banding patterns, respectively. Slides were treated for GBG-, RBA- and RBG-banding techniques. Improved banded karyotypes at early- (350 bands) and pro-metaphase (500 bands) stage were performed and GBG- and RBA-banded prometaphase karyotypes were presented for the first time on this species. All chromosomes, including the small acrocentrics, show clear and distinguishable G- and R-banding patterns. Chromosome identification followed the latest chromosome standard nomenclature (ISCNH 1997). This study is also our contribution to further standard karyotype attempts at the prometaphase stage.

Key words:

• horse
• cytogenetics
• G-bands
• R-bands