Research and Reports on Genetics

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Rapid Communication - Research and Reports on Genetics (2025) Volume 7, Issue 2

The Role of Chromosomes in Cell Division and Genetic Variation

Ruth Camarillo *

Department of Microbiology, IMU University, Malaysia

*Corresponding Author:
Ruth Camarillo
Department of Microbiology, IMU University, Malaysia
E-mail: r.camarillo@gmail.com

Received: 1-Mar-2025, Manuscript No. aarrgs-25-162660; Editor assigned: 4-Mar-2025, PreQC No. aarrgs-25-162660 (PQ) Reviewed:17-Mar-2025, QC No. aarrgs-25-162660Revised:24-Mar-2025, Manuscript No. aarrgs-25-162660; Published:31-Mar-2025, DOI: 10.35841/aarrgs-7.2.254

Citation: Camarillo R. The role of chromosomes in cell division and genetic variation. J Res Rep Genet. 2025;7(2):254

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Introduction

Chromosomes are the carriers of genetic material in all living organisms, essential for the proper functioning and inheritance of traits. Found within the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, chromosomes are structures made up of DNA and proteins that organize and store genetic information. Their role in cell division is crucial for ensuring that genetic material is accurately transmitted from one generation to the next, which is fundamental for growth, reproduction, and maintaining genetic diversity. This article will explore the role of chromosomes in cell division and how they contribute to genetic variation [1].

Chromosomes are long, threadlike structures composed of DNA tightly wrapped around histone proteins. In humans and most organisms, the DNA within chromosomes contains thousands of genes, each responsible for different biological functions. The number of chromosomes varies across species; for instance, humans have 46 chromosomes, arranged in 23 pairs. One chromosome in each pair is inherited from the mother, and the other from the father [2].

Chromosomes come in two main types: autosomes, which are the 22 pairs of non-sex chromosomes, and sex chromosomes (XX or XY), which determine an individual’s biological sex. These chromosomes play a pivotal role in ensuring the accurate distribution of genetic material during cell division [3].

Before a cell divides in mitosis, the chromosomes must replicate to ensure that each new cell receives an identical copy of the genetic material. The process of chromosome replication takes place during interphase, the phase before mitosis begins. Each chromosome is duplicated, creating two identical sister chromatids held together by a structure called the centromere [4].

During mitosis, the sister chromatids are separated into two daughter cells. This ensures that each daughter cell receives an exact copy of the original cell’s chromosomes. The process involves several stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, followed by cytokinesis—the final step of cell division where the cytoplasm is split, creating two distinct cells [5].

Meiosis plays a crucial role in sexual reproduction by ensuring that the number of chromosomes is halved, so that when sperm and egg cells combine during fertilization, the resulting offspring have the correct number of chromosomes. This reduction in chromosome number occurs in two stages of division: meiosis I and meiosis II [6].

In meiosis I, homologous chromosomes (chromosomes that are similar in size, shape, and genetic content) are separated. Each parent contributes one chromosome to a pair, and the result is two daughter cells, each with half the original chromosome number. This stage introduces genetic variation through a process called crossing over, where sections of chromatids are exchanged between homologous chromosomes. This recombination creates new combinations of alleles, increasing genetic diversity in the offspring [7].

In meiosis II, similar to mitosis, the sister chromatids are separated, resulting in four non-identical daughter cells, each with half the chromosome number of the original cell. These four cells will develop into gametes (sperm or eggs), each carrying a unique set of genetic information [8].

Mutations, or changes in the DNA sequence, can occur in the chromosomes and can have a significant impact on an organism’s traits and survival. Chromosomal mutations can involve large-scale changes in the structure or number of chromosomes. These mutations can result from mistakes during DNA replication or environmental factors such as radiation [9].

Chromosomes play a crucial role in human health, with abnormalities often leading to genetic disorders. Advances in genetic research, including chromosome mapping and whole genome sequencing, have greatly improved our understanding of diseases linked to chromosomal abnormalities, such as cancer and genetic syndromes. These insights have led to improved diagnostic methods and therapies, including gene therapy, where the goal is to correct defective genes within chromosomes to treat diseases [10].

Conclusion

Chromosomes are fundamental to life, serving as the carriers of genetic material and playing a central role in cell division and genetic variation. Their accurate division during mitosis and meiosis ensures that genetic information is passed on correctly, maintaining the stability of organisms across generations. Chromosomal recombination during meiosis is crucial for genetic diversity, driving evolution and adaptation. From their structure and function to their role in health and disease, chromosomes are integral to the biological processes that shape life on Earth. Understanding chromosomes and their mechanisms is essential for unraveling the mysteries of inheritance, evolution, and human health.

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