1. The first stage of prophase I in meiosis, characterized by the appearance of thin, thread-like chromosomes that begin to condense from the diffuse chromatin
During leptotene, the chromosomes become visible under the microscope as long, slender threads.
Durante o leptóteno, os cromossomos se tornam visíveis ao microscópio como fios longos e delgados.
2. The early phase of meiotic prophase I in which homologous chromosomes begin pairing and synapsis occurs
The leptotene stage precedes zygotene in the progression of meiosis.
O estágio de leptóteno precede o zigóteno na progressão da meiose.
Leptotene is a specialized scientific term used exclusively in academic and educational contexts related to cell biology and genetics. It is equally recognized in both Brazilian and European Portuguese scientific communities as part of standard biological nomenclature.