What are chromosomes?

Chromosomes are cellular structures that contain genetic information. In humans, chromosomes are found in the nucleus of each cell and occur in pairs. Each pair of chromosomes is inherited from each parent.

types of chromosomes

There are two types of chromosomes in the human body: autosomes and sex chromosomes.

autosomes

Autosomes are chromosomes that are not involved in sex determination. In humans, there are 22 pairs of autosomes. Each pair of autosomes contains genetic information important for the development, growth, and proper functioning of the body. body. Genetic disorders caused by the unusual presence or absence of an autosomal chromosome are called autosomal disorders.

sex chromosomes

Sex chromosomes, also known as gonosomes, are the chromosomes that determine sex of a person. In humans, there is a pair of sex chromosomes: the X chromosome and the Y chromosome.

• Women have two X chromosomes (XX)
• Men have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome (XY)

This difference in sex chromosomes is what determines a person's primary and secondary sexual characteristics.

Chromosomal disorders

Chromosomal disorders can result from a variety of changes in the structure or number of chromosomes, including the unusual presence or absence of an autosomal chromosome or sex chromosome. Most chromosomal disorders are rare, but some, such as Down syndrome, are more common.

Conclusions

In short, autosomes are chromosomes that are not involved in sex determination, while sex chromosomes are the chromosomes that determine sex. Chromosomal disorders can result in changes in the structure or number of chromosomes and may be responsible for a variety of medical conditions and disabilities.

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