3D-computer based reconstructions of apoptotic nuclei.

We present a 3D-model of apoptotic nuclei of HL-60 cells treated with 10 g/ml Etoposide (topoisomerase II inhibitor) for 24 hours. The static model was generated from a series of optical sections obtained through a confocal microscope by freeware and shareware graphical programs available in the Internet. Its animation was done by 3D Studio Max. We demonstrate the appearance of typical fragmentation and condensation of chromatin accompanied by its aggregation to the inner side of the nuclear membrane.