What is a Chromosome?
A chromosome is a thread-like structure formed by the DNA molecule that undergoes a packaging process within the nucleus of every cell. In the chromosome, the DNA is tightly coiled many times around proteins called histones that support its structure. The chromosomes are visible in the cell’s nucleus only when it divides.
Each chromosome has a centromere, which divides the chromosome into two sections or arms. The short arm of the chromosome is called the p arm. The long arm of the chromosome is called the q arm. The location of the centromere on each chromosome gives the chromosome its characteristic shape. According to the position of the centromere, chromosomes are of four types namely Metacentric, Submetacentric, Acrocentric, and Telocentric.
Homologous Chromosome – Structure and Functions
Homologous chromosomes refer to paired chromosomes that essentially have the same gene sequence, gene position (loci), centromere location, and chromosomal length. Though they may have the same genetic sequence and loci they may differ in alleles. The pair is comprised of a paternal chromosome and a maternal chromosome.
Just like homologous chromosomes, there are heterologous chromosomes as well. So let us understand what a chromosome is and then further about homologous chromosomes, and how is it different from heterologous chromosomes. In this article, we will read about homologous chromosomes, their structure, functions, and much more.
Table of Content
- Definition of Homologous Chromosomes
- What is a Chromosome?
- What are Homologous Chromosomes?
- Example of Homologous Chromosomes
- Structure of Homologous Chromosomes
- Difference Between Homologous Chromosome and Heterologous (Non-Homologous) Chromosome
- Sister Chromatids vs Homologous Chromosomes
- Functions of Homologous Chromosome
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