Acrocentric chromosome

Acrocentric Chromosome

An acrocentric chromosome is a type of chromosome that has its centromere located near one end, resulting in one long arm and one short arm. The term "acrocentric" is derived from the Greek words "akros" meaning "end" and "kentron" meaning "center". This type of chromosome is one of the three types of chromosomes based on the position of the centromere, the other two being metacentric and submetacentric chromosomes.

Structure

The structure of an acrocentric chromosome is characterized by a long arm, known as the q arm, and a short arm, known as the p arm. The centromere, which is the point of attachment for spindle fibers during cell division, is located near the end of the p arm. This gives the chromosome a "j" or "l" shape during the metaphase stage of cell division.

Function

The function of acrocentric chromosomes, like all chromosomes, is to carry genes. The genes located on the long arm of the acrocentric chromosomes are typically active and express their traits, while the genes on the short arm are typically inactive or contain ribosomal DNA.

Human Acrocentric Chromosomes

In humans, chromosomes 13, 14, 15, 21, and 22 are acrocentric. These chromosomes are important for normal human development and function. For example, chromosome 21 is the smallest human chromosome but is known for its role in Down syndrome, a condition that results when an individual has three copies of this chromosome instead of the usual two.

See Also

• Centromere
• Chromosome
• Metacentric chromosome
• Submetacentric chromosome
• Down syndrome