Chromosomes are a key part of the process that ensures dna is accurately copied and distributed in the vast majority of cell divisions Still, mistakes do occur on rare occasions Changes in the number or structure of chromosomes in new cells may lead to serious problems. Chromosome, the microscopic threadlike part of the cell that carries hereditary information in the form of genes. A variety of genes are involved in the control of cell growth and division The major function of chromosomes is to carry the hereditary information from one cell generation to the next
Dna is the only permanent component of the chromosome and is the sole genetic material of eukaryotes. It is essential that daughter cells be exact duplicates of the parent cell Mistakes in the duplication or distribution of the chromosomes lead to mutations that may be passed forward to every new cell produced from the abnormal cell. In addition to dna and histones, chromosomes contain other proteins that control the expression, duplication, and repair of genetic material These proteins help ensure that chromosomes are maintained correctly and passed on properly during cell division. Chromosomes allow the entire genetic code to fit in a much more compact space
Specifically, cells can control access to their dna by modifying the structure of their chromatin Highly compacted chromatin simply isn't accessible to the enzymes involved in dna. Chromosomes are essential for the process of cell division and are responsible for the replication, division, and creation of daughter cells that contain correct sequences of dna and proteins.
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