Chromosome Structure and Function

A series of flashcards covering key concepts and terminology related to chromosome structure, function, and genetic techniques.

Submetacentric chromosome

A chromosome with one arm longer than the other, featuring both a short arm (p arm) with genetic content and a long arm (q arm).

Histones

Proteins around which DNA is wrapped, playing a crucial role in the organization and regulation of chromatin.

Nucleosome

The fundamental unit of chromatin, consisting of a segment of DNA wrapped around a histone octamer.

Euchromatin

A less compact form of chromatin that is transcriptionally active and accessible for gene expression.

Heterochromatin

A more compact form of chromatin that is typically transcriptionally inactive, often found in regions of the genome that are less active.

Karyotype

A display of the chromosome pairs of a cell, used to examine chromosomal abnormalities.

G-banding

A technique using specific staining that highlights the banding pattern of chromosomes, allowing for the identification of chromosomal structure.

Metaphase

A stage of cell division (mitosis) where chromosomes are most condensed and can be easily visualized.

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)

A technique used to identify the presence and location of specific DNA sequences on chromosomes using fluorescent probes.

Solenoid

The second level of chromatin organization where nucleosomes are further coiled together, increasing DNA compaction.

Transcription factors

Proteins that regulate the transcription of specific genes by binding to nearby DNA.

Histone modification

Chemical alterations to histones that can affect gene expression and chromatin structure.

C banding

A staining technique used to visualize the centromere of chromosomes in cytogenetics.

Chromatin loops

Structures formed by DNA within chromosomes that help organize and compact the genome.

Facultative chromatin

Chromatin that can shift between euchromatin and heterochromatin based on environmental or physiological conditions.

Zoo fish

A FISH technique used to compare chromosome structure and arrangement between different species.