Somatic pairing of homologous chromosomes of Diptera insect cells is maintained in long-term tissue culture. In prophase and prometaphase the pairing extends throughout the length of the chromosomes and resembles meiotic pachytene. By metaphase the homologs are associated only in the pericentromeric areas, which persists through anaphase. The material is an excellent model for studies of this process and balanced somatic crossingover, which it permits.
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