Reciprocal translocation

From WikiMD.org
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Reciprocal Translocation

Reciprocal translocation (pronunciation: /rɪˈsɪprək(ə)l trænsˈləʊkeɪʃ(ə)n/) is a type of chromosome abnormality that occurs when two non-homologous chromosomes exchange parts with each other. This phenomenon is a common cause of genetic disorders and can lead to various health complications.

Etymology

The term 'reciprocal' is derived from the Latin word 'reciprocus', meaning 'returning the same way', and 'translocation' comes from the Latin 'translocatio', which means 'to change place'. In the context of genetics, it refers to the exchange of genetic material between non-homologous chromosomes.

Description

In a reciprocal translocation, two different chromosomes have exchanged segments with each other. This can disrupt the normal functioning of the genes at the breakpoints and can lead to various genetic disorders. However, if the exchange of segments does not disrupt any vital genes, the individual carrying the translocation may be healthy but can produce offspring with unbalanced chromosome complements.

Related Terms

  • Chromosome: A thread-like structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes.
  • Genetic disorder: A disease caused by abnormalities in an individual's genetic material.
  • Non-homologous chromosomes: Chromosomes that do not pair or synapse with each other during meiosis.
  • Breakpoints: The specific locations on chromosomes where they break and rejoin.

See Also

External links

Esculaap.svg

This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.


Languages: - East Asian 中文, 日本, 한국어, South Asian हिन्दी, Urdu, বাংলা, తెలుగు, தமிழ், ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian Indonesian, Vietnamese, Thai, မြန်မာဘာသာ, European español, Deutsch, français, русский, português do Brasil, Italian, polski