Question

Recombination nodules are found during
A)Anaphase
B)Metaphase
C)Prophase
D)Telophase

Answer 1

Hint: Meiosis is a cell division cycle which occurs in germ cells to produce the gametes like sperms and eggs. It is also called reductional division as it results in four cells with one copy of each chromosome and addresses recombination during this cycle.

Complete answer:
Meiosis involves two rounds of cell cycle division to produce four cells with haploid number of chromosomes. Let us analyze the options to find out the correct option.

Option A: Anaphase is the phase in which the sister chromatids are pulled to the opposite poles and the separated chromatids are now individual chromosomes. Therefore, this is the incorrect option.

Option B: Metaphase is the phase of cell division where the chromosomes are arranged at the metaphase plate. The spindle fibre formation takes place during this phase and the centriole appears at the two opposite poles. Therefore, this is the incorrect option.
Option C: Prophase is the phase where the copied chromosome condenses. In prophase I of meiosis recombination nodules are seen which are multicomponent proteinaceous ellipsoids found in association with the synaptonemal complex. Therefore, this is the correct option.

Option D: Telophase is the phase where a full set of chromosomes gather at the end of each pole. This phase is followed by cytokinesis in which the cells divide into two daughter cells. Therefore, this is the incorrect option.

Hence, the correct answer is option (C)

Note: In prophase I when recombination nodule is observed numerous early RNs are observed during zygotene which may be involved in homologous synapsis and early events in recombination.