Chromosome translocation

Chromosome translocation is a genetic phenomenon that involves the rearrangement of parts between nonhomologous chromosomes. It is a type of chromosomal abnormality or mutation that can occur during cell division and can lead to various genetic disorders.

Overview

A chromosome translocation happens when a segment of a chromosome breaks off and attaches to a different chromosome. This can occur between any of the 23 pairs of chromosomes, leading to a wide variety of potential translocation combinations. The two main types of translocations are reciprocal (or balanced) and Robertsonian.

Types of Translocations

Reciprocal Translocation

In a reciprocal translocation, segments from two different chromosomes have been exchanged. This is also known as a balanced translocation because there is no genetic material gained or lost in the cell, just rearranged.

Robertsonian Translocation

A Robertsonian translocation occurs when the long arms of two acrocentric chromosomes fuse at the centromere and the two short arms are lost. The result is a single chromosome that contains the genetic material of two chromosomes.

Consequences of Chromosome Translocation

Chromosome translocations can have a variety of effects depending on the specific chromosomes involved and the location of the translocation. Some translocations can be harmless, while others can lead to genetic disorders or increase the risk of certain diseases. For example, specific translocations have been associated with various types of cancer, including leukemia and lymphoma.

Detection and Diagnosis

Chromosome translocations can be detected through various genetic testing methods, including karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). These tests can identify the specific chromosomes involved in the translocation, which can help in diagnosing potential genetic disorders.

See Also

• Genetic disorder
• Chromosome abnormality
• Genetic testing