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High Resolution Electron Microscope Studies of Chromosomal Fibers

Citation

Griffith, Jack Denney (1970) High Resolution Electron Microscope Studies of Chromosomal Fibers. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/RTXG-PQ59. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:08042015-105247195

Abstract

Techniques are described for mounting and visualizing biological macromolecules for high resolution electron microscopy. Standard techniques are included in a discussion of new methods designed to provide the highest structural resolution. Methods are also discussed for handling samples on the grid, for making accurate size measurements at the 20 Å level, and for photographically enhancing image contrast.

The application of these techniques to the study of the binding of DNA polymerase to DNA is described. It is shown that the electron micrographs of this material are in agreement with the model proposed by Dr. Arthur Kornberg. A model is described which locates several active sites on the enzyme.

The chromosomal material of the protozoan tetrahymena has been isolated and characterized by biochemical techniques and by electron microscopy. This material is shown to be typical of chromatin of higher creatures.

Comparison with other chromatins discloses that the genome of tetrahymena is highly template active and has a relatively simple genetic construction.

High resolution electron microscope procedures developed in this work have been combined with standard biochemical techniques to give a comprehensive picture of the structure of interphase chromosome fibers. The distribution of the chromosomal proteins along its DNA is discussed.

Item Type:Thesis (Dissertation (Ph.D.))
Subject Keywords:(Biophysics)
Degree Grantor:California Institute of Technology
Division:Biology
Major Option:Biology
Thesis Availability:Public (worldwide access)
Research Advisor(s):
  • Bonner, James Frederick
Thesis Committee:
  • Unknown, Unknown
Defense Date:16 September 1969
Funders:
Funding AgencyGrant Number
CaltechUNSPECIFIED
NIHUNSPECIFIED
Record Number:CaltechTHESIS:08042015-105247195
Persistent URL:https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:08042015-105247195
DOI:10.7907/RTXG-PQ59
Default Usage Policy:No commercial reproduction, distribution, display or performance rights in this work are provided.
ID Code:9076
Collection:CaltechTHESIS
Deposited By:INVALID USER
Deposited On:04 Aug 2015 19:21
Last Modified:10 May 2024 22:08

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