Discovery of Chromosome
The chromosome was discovered in the late 19th century. German biologist Walther Flemming, in 1882, first observed thread-like structures during cell division in the cell nucleus, which he called “chromatin.” The term “chromosome” was first coined by W. Waldeyer in 1888. Waldeyer contributed significantly to understanding cell division and the visible thread-like structures he observed during mitosis. In 1842, Karl Nageli observed the rod-shaped chromosomes in the plant cell and termed them transitory cytoblast, which were later identified as chromosomes. The discoveries laid the foundation for understanding the role of chromosomes in genetics.
Chromosomes Structure and Functions
Chromosomes are thread-like structures found in the nucleus. They consist of proteins and DNA that are arranged into specific sequences for specific traits. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, one from each parent. The most important function of chromosome is to carry the genetic material from one cell generation to the next. The basic shape of chromosomes is rod-shaped consisting of a centromere and arms. During cell division, chromosomes divide and ensure the distribution of genetic material to daughter cells.
The function of chromosome includes the transfer of genetic information from one generation to another, protein synthesis, cellular replication, and gene regulation. In this article, we will study What is chromosome, the discovery of chromosomes, the structure of chromatin, the structure of chromosomes, the function of chromosomes, types of chromosomes, Human chromosomes and Karyotypes, and Genetic mapping.
Table of Content
- What is a Chromosome?
- Discovery of Chromosome
- Structure of Chromosome
- Structural Organization of Chromatin
- Functions of Chromosome
- Types of Chromosomes
- Human Chromosomes
- Karyotypes and Genetic Mapping
- FAQs – Chromosomes and Their Function
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