Which critical cytogenetic event occurs exclusively during prophase I of meiosis, distinguishing it from mitotic prophase?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Synapsis of homologous chromosomes and reciprocal crossing over
In prophase I of meiosis, maternal and paternal homologous chromosomes align closely along their lengths (synapsis) mediated by the synaptonemal complex, forming tetrads and undergoing reciprocal non-sister chromatid exchange (crossing over at chiasmata). Nuclear breakdown and centrosome duplication occur in both mitosis and meiosis, while sister chromatid separation occurs in anaphase, not prophase.
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