Cytogenetics: Introduction to Human Chromosome Complement

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary related to the study of cytogenetics and the human chromosome complement.

Cytogenetics

The study of chromosomes and their role in heredity.

Chromosome Complement

The whole set of chromosomes for a species; in humans, it consists of 46 chromosomes.

Autosomal Chromosomes

22 pairs of chromosomes present in humans that are not sex chromosomes.

Centromere

The region of a chromosome where the sister chromatids are joined together.

Telomere

Unique structures at the physical ends of each chromosome that stabilize the chromosome during cell division.

Mendelian Genetics

The study of inheritance and how traits are passed from parents to offspring.

Bipotential Gonad

The stage in embryonic development where gonads can develop into either testes or ovaries.

SRY Gene

The gene on the Y chromosome that determines male sex and initiates testis development.

Pseudoautosomal Regions (PAR)

Regions of the X and Y chromosomes that are homologous and undergo crossing over during meiosis.

Chromosome Abnormalities

Genetic disorders caused by irregularities in chromosome number or structure.

DAX1

A gene that represses male differentiation; its function is antagonized by the SRY protein.

Hormonal Mediated Development

The process by which hormones influence the development of sexual characteristics.