What is the need of staining chromosomes?

Answer 1

It is specific for the phosphate groups of DNA and attaches itself to regions of DNA where there are high amounts of adenine-thymine bonding. Giemsa stain is used in Giemsa banding, commonly called G-banding, to stain chromosomes and often used to create an idiogram. It can identify chromosomal aberrations such astranslocations and rearrangements.

Answer 2

When scientists first began to explore the internal structures of cells, the only technology available to them was light microscopy.

Here, the samples are affixed on to a glass slide and the light source passes through the sample and reaches the main lens of the microscope.

It became clear that in order to look at the internal structures, some staining is required. The light was passing right through the sample and nothing was visible without staining.

Answer 3

Staining chromosomes allows scientists to visualize and distinguish individual chromosomes under a microscope. This helps in studying aspects such as chromosome structure, number, and abnormalities like deletions or translocations. Staining is necessary to better understand genetic disorders, evolution, and cell division processes.

Answer 4

Histological sections are stained to enhance the visualization and differentiation of microscopic structures.

Answer 5

Two needs: one is to make them 'stand-out' from their background - or backdrop - ; and second is to make them distinguishable amongst themselves.