Chromosomal aberration

Chromosomal aberration refers to a structural alteration or anomaly in the number or structure of chromosomes. Chromosomal aberrations are often the cause of genetic disorders and can lead to various diseases, including cancer.

Types of Chromosomal Aberration

Chromosomal aberrations can be broadly classified into two categories: numerical and structural aberrations.

Numerical Aberrations

Numerical aberrations occur when there is a change in the number of chromosomes. This can be due to non-disjunction during meiosis or mitosis, leading to cells with extra or missing chromosomes. Examples of numerical aberrations include aneuploidy and polyploidy.

Structural Aberrations

Structural aberrations occur when there is a change in the structure or parts of the chromosomes. This can be due to breakage, loss, or rearrangement of parts of the chromosomes. Examples of structural aberrations include deletions, duplications, inversions, and translocations.

Causes of Chromosomal Aberration

Chromosomal aberrations can be caused by various factors, including radiation, chemicals, viruses, and certain drugs. These factors can cause damage to the DNA and lead to errors during DNA replication, resulting in chromosomal aberrations.

Effects of Chromosomal Aberration

Chromosomal aberrations can have various effects on the organism, depending on the type and extent of the aberration. They can lead to genetic disorders, developmental abnormalities, and increased risk of certain diseases. Some chromosomal aberrations can also be beneficial, leading to genetic variation and evolution.

Detection of Chromosomal Aberration

Chromosomal aberrations can be detected using various techniques, including karyotyping, FISH, and CGH.

See Also

• Genetic disorder
• Mutation
• Genetic variation