Write a brief note on the following

a. Synaptonemal complex

It is made up of protein formed between two homologous chromosomes. The complex formed during zygotene which is the substage of Prophase I. It contains a recombination nodule which consists of enzyme recombinase involved in crossing over.

b. Metaphase plate

The metaphase plate is the imaginary line which is formed in the centre of the cell during metaphase. The chromosomes will get close to the spindle fibres and align themselves on the plate. The movement of chromosomes towards the metaphase plate is called congression.