Synaptonemal complex
Synaptonemal Complex
The Synaptonemal Complex (pronunciation: /sɪˌnæptəˈniːməl ˈkɒmplɛks/) is a protein structure that forms between two homologous chromosomes during the meiotic phase of sexual reproduction.
Etymology
The term "Synaptonemal Complex" is derived from the Greek words "synapto", meaning "to connect", and "nema", meaning "thread". This refers to the complex's role in connecting homologous chromosomes during meiosis.
Function
The Synaptonemal Complex plays a crucial role in the pairing and recombination of homologous chromosomes during the first division of meiosis. It facilitates the process of crossing over, where genetic material is exchanged between homologous chromosomes, leading to genetic diversity in the resulting gametes.
Structure
The Synaptonemal Complex is a tripartite structure, consisting of two lateral elements and a central element. The lateral elements align with the axes of the homologous chromosomes, while the central element holds the homologous chromosomes together.
Related Terms
- Meiosis: A type of cell division that results in four daughter cells each with half the number of chromosomes of the parent cell.
- Homologous Chromosomes: A pair of chromosomes containing the same linear gene sequences, each derived from one parent.
- Crossing Over: The exchange of genes between homologous chromosomes, resulting in a mixture of parental characteristics in offspring.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Synaptonemal complex
- Wikipedia's article - Synaptonemal complex
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