Chromosomal instability
Chromosomal Instability
Chromosomal instability (kroh-muh-soh-muhl in-stuh-bil-i-tee) is a condition characterized by changes in the number and structure of chromosomes in a cell. It is a hallmark of many cancer types and is associated with increased risk of malignancy and poor prognosis.
Etymology
The term "chromosomal instability" is derived from the Greek words "chroma" meaning color, "soma" meaning body, and the Latin word "instabilis" meaning unstable. It refers to the unstable nature of the chromosomes in cells affected by this condition.
Definition
Chromosomal instability involves changes in the number (aneuploidy) and structure (translocation, deletion, duplication) of chromosomes. These changes can lead to the disruption of genes and the creation of abnormal proteins, which can promote the development and progression of diseases such as cancer.
Causes
Chromosomal instability can be caused by various factors, including errors in DNA replication, exposure to radiation or certain chemicals, and defects in the cell's DNA repair mechanisms.
Related Terms
- Aneuploidy: A condition in which a cell has an abnormal number of chromosomes.
- Translocation: A type of chromosomal abnormality in which a chromosome breaks and a portion of it reattaches to a different chromosome.
- Deletion: A type of chromosomal abnormality in which a part of a chromosome is missing or deleted.
- Duplication: A type of chromosomal abnormality in which a portion of the chromosome is duplicated, resulting in extra genetic material.
- DNA replication: The process by which a cell makes a copy of its DNA.
- Radiation: Energy that comes from a source and travels through space and may be able to penetrate various materials.
- DNA repair: The collection of processes by which a cell identifies and corrects damage to the DNA molecules that encode its genome.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chromosomal instability
- Wikipedia's article - Chromosomal instability
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