chromosome organization involved in meiotic cell cycle

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

A process of chromosome organization that is involved in a meiotic cell cycle. [GOC:mah]

Meiosis is a specialized cell division that produces gametes (sperm and egg cells) with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell. This process ensures that offspring inherit one copy of each chromosome from each parent, maintaining the species’ chromosome number. Chromosome organization plays a crucial role in the successful completion of meiosis.

During prophase I, homologous chromosomes, which carry genes for the same traits, pair up in a process called synapsis. This pairing allows for the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes, a process known as crossing over. Crossing over increases genetic diversity by creating new combinations of alleles on chromosomes. Synapsis and crossing over require a complex interplay of proteins that bind to chromosomes and mediate their interactions. These proteins form a structure called the synaptonemal complex, which holds the homologous chromosomes together and facilitates the exchange of genetic material.

Following prophase I, the chromosomes condense further and the synaptonemal complex disassembles. In metaphase I, the homologous chromosome pairs line up at the center of the cell, attached to microtubules from opposite poles. This alignment ensures that each daughter cell receives one chromosome from each pair. During anaphase I, the homologous chromosomes are pulled apart by microtubules to opposite poles of the cell. This separation reduces the chromosome number by half. Meiosis I concludes with telophase I and cytokinesis, resulting in two daughter cells, each with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

Meiosis II is similar to mitosis. The sister chromatids of each chromosome are separated during anaphase II, resulting in four daughter cells, each with half the number of chromosomes as the original parent cell. These four daughter cells are called gametes, which are haploid, meaning they contain only one copy of each chromosome.

Accurate chromosome organization during meiosis is essential for proper gamete formation. Errors in chromosome segregation can lead to aneuploidy, a condition where cells have an abnormal number of chromosomes. Aneuploidy can result in developmental problems, infertility, and various genetic disorders. The complex and precise mechanisms involved in chromosome organization during meiosis ensure the faithful transmission of genetic information from one generation to the next.'
"

Proteins (1)

Compounds (4)