What are Chromosomes?
Chromosomes are thread-like structures found in the nucleus of the cell. It is made up of DNA, histones, and other non-histone proteins. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a nucleotide sequence that carries the genetic information necessary for all living organisms’ growth, development, functioning, and reproduction. Genes are made up of a sequence of DNA and is the fundamental hereditary unit.
DNA undergoes primary, secondary, and tertiary levels of packaging by wrapping around histone molecules and associated proteins to form the solenoid chromatin structure found in a resting cell’s nucleus. During cell division, in the metaphase, the chromatin in the nucleus further condenses to form chromosomes.
The number of chromosomes in an organism is also species-specific. For example, humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, while a fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) has four pairs of chromosomes. Chromosome was discovered by Walther Flemming.
23 Chromosomes – Functions and Types of Chromosomes
Chromosomes are made of DNA molecules and are found in the nucleus of a cell. There are 23 chromosome pairs in humans. Transporting genetic information from one cell generation to the next is the main function of chromosomes. Several genes on each chromosome code for different proteins. The features of the entire organism are influenced by or determined by these genes.
Table of Content
- What are Chromosomes?
- Human Chromosome Types
- 23 Chromosomes and Their Functions
- Structure of Chromosome
- Different types of Chromosomes
- Genetic Mapping with Chromosomes
- Function of X and Y Chromosomes
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