CHROMOSOMAL TRANSLOCATIONS Meaning and
Definition
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Chromosomal translocations refer to the rearrangement of genetic material between two or more chromosomes, resulting in an exchange of segments or the fusion of two different chromosomes. This genetic alteration occurs when a piece of a chromosome breaks off and attaches to another chromosome, which can lead to various abnormalities and genetic disorders.
Chromosomal translocations can be categorized into two main types: reciprocal translocations and Robertsonian translocations. Reciprocal translocations involve the exchange of chromosome segments between non-homologous chromosomes. This can cause disruption in gene expression and can lead to abnormal development or functioning of the affected genes. On the other hand, Robertsonian translocations occur when two acrocentric chromosomes (those with centromeres near the ends) fuse, resulting in a larger chromosome with two long arms and no short arms.
Chromosomal translocations can have serious consequences on an individual's health. They are commonly associated with various types of cancer, such as chronic myeloid leukemia and Burkitt's lymphoma. Additionally, certain chromosomal translocations are known to be the cause of genetic disorders, like Down syndrome (translocation between chromosomes 21 and 14) or Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myelogenous leukemia (translocation between chromosomes 9 and 22).
Diagnosing chromosomal translocations typically involves cytogenetic testing, where the chromosomes are analyzed under a microscope to detect any structural rearrangements. Understanding the specific translocation is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment for individuals affected by genetic disorders or cancers associated with chromosomal translocations.
Common Misspellings for CHROMOSOMAL TRANSLOCATIONS
- xhromosomal translocations
- vhromosomal translocations
- fhromosomal translocations
- dhromosomal translocations
- cgromosomal translocations
- cbromosomal translocations
- cnromosomal translocations
- cjromosomal translocations
- curomosomal translocations
- cyromosomal translocations
- cheomosomal translocations
- chdomosomal translocations
- chfomosomal translocations
- chtomosomal translocations
- ch5omosomal translocations
- ch4omosomal translocations
- chrimosomal translocations
- chrkmosomal translocations
- chrlmosomal translocations
- chrpmosomal translocations
Etymology of CHROMOSOMAL TRANSLOCATIONS
The word "chromosomal" is derived from the word "chromosome", which refers to the structures in the nucleus of cells that contain genetic information. It is composed of the Greek roots "chroma" meaning "color" and "soma" meaning "body". The term "translocation" is derived from the Latin word "translocare", which means "to transfer" or "to move across". When combined, "chromosomal translocation" refers to the movement or transfer of genetic material between two different chromosomes.
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