This displays the 3D fused structure of two axial elements (AEs) during the diplotene stage of prophase I. The stained protein is SYCP3. 

As the chromosomes progress through prophase I of meiosis I, the synaptonemal complex (SC) forms between homologous chromosomes to facilitate accurate chromosomal segregation. The complex is composed of two axial elements (AEs) ,SYCP2 and SYCP3, and a central element (CE). The CE is then linked to the AE via transverse filaments called SYCP1. As the chromosomes progress through diplotene, the SC begins to dissociate as the CE and SYCP1 disappear. In order to maintain the stability and integrity of the chromosomes, the AE migrate towards each other and undergo remodeling by fusing with each other.

The image was taken using 3D MINFLUX.

Contributors: Reza Rajabi-Toustani, Sasha Kakkassery, Huanyu Qiao