Chromosome

In the nucleus of each cell, the DNA molecule is packaged into thread-like structures called chromosomes. Each chromosome is made up of DNA tightly coiled many times around proteins called histones that support its structure.

What is a Chromosome?

Chromosomes are the basic building blocks of life where the entire genome of an organism is essentially organized and stored in the form of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) which is present inside every cell making up that organism. A chromosome is a single chain of DNA that is coiled and super coiled to form dense thread-like pieces. The term chromosome is derived from the Greek words "chroma" or color and "some" or body and is so named because chromosomes have the ability to be stained with dyes.

Chromosome History

Chromosomes in Eukaryotes

Chromosomes in Prokaryotes

Chromosome Karyotype

Human Chromosomes

Chromosomal Abnormalities

Common Chromosomal Disorders (Chromosomes 1-5 and X and Y)

What is Chromosome 1?

What is Chromosome 2?

What is Chromosome 3?

What is Chromosome 4?

See more featured articles »

What is Chromosome 5?

What is the X Chromosome?

What is the Y Chromosome?

Latest Chromosome News and Research

Crick researchers identify key Y chromosome genes influencing sperm development

Researchers at the Crick have uncovered which genes on the Y chromosome regulate the development of sperm and impact fertility in male mice.

23 Jan 2025

Researchers uncover how PICH protein protects DNA during cell division

Researchers at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) have made an exciting discovery about how human cells protect DNA during cell division, offering new insights into combating diseases such as cancer.

21 Jan 2025

New insights into rare liver cancer as clinical trial for treatment begins

Like many rare diseases, fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma (FLC) mounts a ferocious attack against an unlucky few-in this case, children, adolescents, and young adults.

17 Jan 2025

Unveiling the genetic roots of bicuspid aortic valve

Large and rare duplications and deletions in a chromosome region known as 22q11.2 , which involves genes that regulate cardiac development, are linked to nonsyndromic bicuspid aortic valve disease, according to a new study led by UTHealth Houston researchers.

16 Jan 2025

RNA nanoparticles offer dual action against prostate tumors

Yang Zhang, PhD, and Jinjun Shi, PhD, both of the Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital, are co-senior authors of a paper published in ACS Nanoscience Au, "Lipid Nanoparticle Delivery of mRNA and siRNA for Concurrent Restoration of Tumor Suppressor and Inhibition of Tumorigenic Driver in Prostate Cancer."

10 Jan 2025

Computer model helps tailor CML treatment to individual patients

Which medicine is best when you are affected by cancer? This can vary from person to person. A new method can help people with a specific type of blood cancer get the best medicine for them.

9 Jan 2025

The X factor: Decoding brain aging differences between men and women

Researchers unveil how biological sex influences brain aging, revealing genetic, hormonal, and molecular mechanisms behind cognitive resilience and decline.

9 Jan 2025

New brain stem cell discovery could usher in better treatments for glioblastoma

The discovery of a new type of stem cell in the brain could usher in better treatments for the deadliest brain tumor.

8 Jan 2025

Y chromosome’s unexpected impact on aging and disease in men

Loss of the Y chromosome (LOY) in men, a dynamic mutation linked to aging, impairs immune function and increases risks of cancer, Alzheimer’s, and cardiovascular diseases, making it a promising biomarker and therapeutic target.

5 Jan 2025

Unraveling retrotransposon mechanisms in centromere insertion

A joint research group team led by Sayuri Tsukahara and Tetsuji Kakutani of the University of Tokyo has clarified a mechanism of how retrotransposons, genetic elements that can "jump around" chromosomes and are known drivers of evolution, preferentially insert in the centromere.

1 Jan 2025

New insights into Klinefelter syndrome and male infertility

Imagine the deep frustration of countless men who long to become fathers, only to face infertility due to a genetic condition they can't control. For those with Klinefelter syndrome, this painful reality is a constant struggle.

26 Dec 2024

Study uncovers a previously unknown genetic link to autism spectrum disorder

New research published in The American Journal of Human Genetics has identified a previously unknown genetic link to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study found that variants in the DDX53 gene contribute to ASD, providing new insights into the genetic underpinnings of the condition.

19 Dec 2024

New therapies and technologies provide hope for age-related fertility challenges

Scientists explore emerging strategies to combat reproductive aging, highlighting promising therapies and technologies to improve fertility in later life.

17 Dec 2024

Genetic shifts in reproductive traits link to aging and health risks

This study explores the genetics of human reproductive traits, revealing links to aging, health outcomes, and longevity while highlighting the role of genetic factors in modern fertility shifts.

17 Dec 2024

New discovery reveals twisting action of molecular motors in the DNA

Scientists from the Kavli Institute of Delft University of Technology and the IMP Vienna Biocenter discovered a new property of the molecular motors that shape our chromosomes.

16 Dec 2024

Novel drug combination shows promise for CLL treatment

A novel, fixed-duration drug combination - consisting of a second-generation BTK inhibitor, called acalabrutinib, plus a BCL-2 inhibitor (venetoclax), with or without a third blood cancer drug - shows deep and durable responses in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute investigator Jennifer Brown, MD, PhD, reports at the 66th American Society for Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition, on behalf of the trial investigators.

9 Dec 2024