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Chromosome

Definition(s)

Structure found in the nucleus of a cell, which contains the genes. Chromosomes come in pairs, and a normal human cell contains 46 chromosomes.

Definition from: Human Genome Project InformationThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the U.S. Department of Energy

Physical structure consisting of DNA and supporting proteins called chromatin. Human cells normally contain 46 chromosomes identified as 23 pairs; 22 pairs are autosomes and one pair are the sex chromosomes

Definition from: GeneTestsThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. from the University of Washington and the National Center for Biotechnology Information

A chromosome is an organized package of DNA found in the nucleus of the cell. Different organisms have different numbers of chromosomes. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes--22 pairs of numbered chromosomes, called autosomes, and one pair of sex chromosomes, X and Y. Each parent contributes one chromosome to each pair so that offspring get half of their chromosomes from their mother and half from their father.

Definition from: Talking Glossary of Genetic TermsThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. from the National Human Genome Research Institute

Related discussion in the Handbook

See also Understanding Medical Terminology.

 
Published: February 11, 2013