Resolving interface structure and local internal mechanics of mitotic chromosomes

Andrea Ridolfi, Hannes Witt, Janni Harju, Tinka V. M. Clement, Erwin E. J. G. Peterman, Chase P. Broedersz () and Gijs J. L. Wuite ()
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Andrea Ridolfi: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Physics and Astronomy and LaserLaB Amsterdam
Hannes Witt: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Physics and Astronomy and LaserLaB Amsterdam
Janni Harju: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Physics and Astronomy and LaserLaB Amsterdam
Tinka V. M. Clement: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Physics and Astronomy and LaserLaB Amsterdam
Erwin E. J. G. Peterman: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Physics and Astronomy and LaserLaB Amsterdam
Chase P. Broedersz: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Physics and Astronomy and LaserLaB Amsterdam
Gijs J. L. Wuite: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Physics and Astronomy and LaserLaB Amsterdam

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-10

Abstract: Abstract The interface of chromosomes enables them to interact with the cell environment and is crucial for their mechanical stability during mitosis. Here, we use Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) to probe the interface and local micromechanics of the highly condensed and complex chromatin network of native human mitotic chromosomes. Our AFM images provide detailed snapshots of chromatin loops and Sister-Chromatids Intertwines. A scaling analysis of these images reveals that the chromatin surface has fractal nature. AFM-based Force Spectroscopy and microrheology further show that chromosomes can resist severe deformations, elastically recovering their initial shape following two characteristic timescales. Localized indentations over the chromatids reveal that the spatially varying micromechanics of the chromatin network is largely governed by chromatin density. Together, our AFM investigation provides insights into the structure and local mechanics of mitotic chromosomes, offering a toolbox for further characterization of complex biological structures, such as chromosomes, down to the nanoscale.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-65821-w

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