Thanks BenLurkin.
Posted on 09/27/2013 8:44:00 PM PDT by BenLurkin
The images reveal chromosomes that are not at all X-shaped. In fact, they're pretty much the opposite: They're spheroid. Their DNA strands seem to arrange themselves, most of the time, into loose little blobs of genetic material.
So why the X-shape that has become so familiar? Because chromosomes do take that form -- during cell division. As Peter Fraser, one of the project's researchers, explains it, "This microscopic portrait of a chromosome actually shows a structure that occurs only transiently in cells – at a point when they are just about to divide." So it's not that the X-based images of the chromosomes have been wrong; it's that they've been incomplete. Sometimes, it's X's; most often, however, it's O's. In life's grand game of tic-tac-toe, the O's have totally won.
(Excerpt) Read more at theatlantic.com ...
I’m not a man of science, but I’ve read a few things about chromosomes recently. These facts may explain some of what we have to gain by such a study. Chromosomes are made up of DNA. DNA is a molecule that encodes the GENETIC INSTRUCTIONS used in the development and functioning of all known organisms and many viruses. DNA is a nucleic acid fused with proteins and carbohydrates.
Knowing how to recognize a wider variety of chromosomes may lead to breakthroughs in genetic therapies, or an earlier identification of diseases passed through the genes. You could say our glossary of possible chromosome shapes, sizes and colors has now been increased.
Some gene therapies are already in common use, by way of a vector, carrier or virus. Gene therapy may eventually help HEMOPHILLIACS to manufacture their own clotting factor, This would remove or lessen their need to have weekly infusions.
Thank you for your input. However, my original question still goes unanswered ... why would I care whether a chromosome is Y shaped or O shaped?
Ha Ha , I give up, (for now). But it was fun trying. I gave myself a reason to study science for a few minutes.
I wouldn’t have wanted to try selling you any of those $2000. Kirby Vaccuum Cleaners back when Door to Door was common.
It’s just a correction in what they thought. Doesn’t change you, just what they thought about you. I love genetics. Sooo wonderful and technically designed. The best part is that there is so much more to learn!
Well, you know the rest. Soon to be a great new "family show" on CBS.
It makes you more well-rounded?
It “affects” you.
...loose little blob of genetic material.
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