Chapter 11.3, Problem 1NV

Summary Introduction

To determine:

Definition of the terms telomere, nondisjunction, and karyotype.

Use of karyotype and sketch of a karyotype.

Explanation of Solution

Telomere: It is a region present at the end of the chromosomes which contains repetitive nucleotide sequence. It protects the loss of genetic information from the end of chromosomes and the fusion and coiling of chromosomes to neighboring cells.

Nondisjunction: It is a condition, in which the sister chromatids or the homologous chromosomes fail to separate at anaphase. This results in an unequal division of the chromosome in daughter cells.

Karyotype: The karyotype is a process, by which the researchers or geneticists take a photograph of the chromosome present in the cells. It helps in determining different types of chromosomal abnormalities.

Given below is a typical karyotype of a normal human male: