Types of Chromosomes
Based on the position of the centromere, there are four types of chromosomes. These are as follows:
Metacentric Chromosomes
- The centromere is present in the center and divides it into two equal halves.
- During cell division, the chromosomes appear V- or X-shaped.
- Examples of such chromosomes are: 1st, 3rd, 16th, 19th, and 20th.
Sub-metacentric chromosomes
- The centromere is present near the middle of the chromosome and divides it into two unequal arms.
- During cell division, the chromosomes appear L-shaped.
- Most chromosomes in humans are submetacentric. For example, 2nd, 4th to 12th, 17th, 18th, and X chromosomes.
Acrocentric chromosomes
- Centromere is present near the end of the chromosome.
- It forms a short p-arm and a long q-arm.
- Examples of such chromosomes are the 13th, 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd, and Y chromosomes.
Telocentric chromosomes
- Centromere is present at the end of the chromosome, and they have only one distinguishable chromosome arm.
- Rarely observed in humans.
- During the anaphase phase of cell division, the shape of the chromosome is like the letter ‘i’.
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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