Update: Chromosomes Are Shaped Less Like X's, More Like O's

theatlantic.com ^ | Sep 26 2013, 3:22 PM ET | Megan Garber

[lee martell]

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.

[doc1019]

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?

[lee martell]

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.

[huldah1776]

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!

[FredZarguna]

Yet I can't get over the creepy-crawly sensation that this story is soon to be followed by a story about how the 'X' and 'Y' shapes of chromosome pair #23 are, like 'XX' chromosome pairs of the 22 pairs of autosomes, actually shaped like 'O's most of their useful lifetimes, which leads to the inevitable conclusion that our sexual nature is much more amorphous than we were led to believe in the past, and that most of us are really not fully male or female most of the time and pass through many different gender identities just as our chromosomes do ...

Well, you know the rest. Soon to be a great new "family show" on CBS.

[Boogieman]

It makes you more well-rounded?

[SunkenCiv]

Thanks BenLurkin.

[BwanaNdege]

Molecular Visualizations of DNA

[BwanaNdege]

BTW, all this "just happened after the Primordial Soup had simmered a bit, with a few lightening bolts thrown in now & then".

Not according to Hoyle

[1010RD]

It “affects” you.

[UCANSEE2]

"Hey babe, can I buy you a drink?"

[UCANSEE2]

O for Obama because he is The One!

...loose little blob of genetic material.