Chromosome Transmission During Cell Division and Sexual Reproduction

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to chromosome transmission, cell division, and sexual reproduction.

Chromatin

A complex of DNA and proteins found in eukaryotic cells.

Prokaryotes

Cells lacking a membrane-bound nucleus, containing a single circular chromosome.

Eukaryotes

Cells with internal membranes that enclose specialized compartments, including a nucleus.

Diploid

A cell or organism having two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Homozygous

Having two identical alleles for a particular gene.

Heterozygous

Having two different alleles for a particular gene.

Dominant Allele

An allele that expresses its phenotypic effect even when heterozygous with a recessive allele.

Recessive Allele

An allele whose phenotypic effect is not expressed in a heterozygote.

Cell Cycle

The series of events that take place in a cell leading to its division and replication.

Mitosis

The process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm to form two separate daughter cells.

Meiosis

The process by which sexually reproducing diploid organisms produce haploid gametes through two successive cell divisions.

Synapsis

The pairing of homologous chromosomes during prophase I of meiosis.

Chiasma

The point at which paired chromosomes remain in contact during the first metaphase of meiosis.

Autosomes

Chromosomes that are not involved in determining the sex of an organism.

Sex Chromosomes

Chromosomes that differ between males and females.

Heterogametic Sex

The sex that produces two types of gametes, such as males with X and Y chromosomes.

Homogametic Sex

The sex that produces one type of gamete, such as females with only X chromosomes.

Microtubule Organizing Centers (MTOCs)

Centrosomes that organize the microtubules during cell division.

Kinetochore

A protein complex bound to a centromere of a chromosome, essential for chromosome movement during cell division.

Telophase

The final stage of cell division where chromosomes are at opposite poles and nuclear envelopes form.