• Question: whats the purpose of each of the 26 pairs of chromosomes

    Asked by bethany bob to Andy, Duane, Giovanna, Katie on 19 Nov 2014.
    • Photo: Duane Mellor

      Duane Mellor answered on 19 Nov 2014:

      Different species have different numbers of chromosomes, only the X and Y really have defined roles. That is perhaps a simplification as the X chromosome is responsible for some clotting functions as well as coding for female traits (Y being the male chromosome).
      It is hard to say which chromosome is for what, as almost all cells contain a nucleus and all 23 pairs then each tissue probably needs bits from each chromosome. We know for example the genes increasing risk of type 2 diabetes are found across at least 7 chromosomes.
      We do know that half of the chromosomes are inherited from each chromosome and that the full sequence has been decoded. With modern science this can be done relatively easily for under 1000US dollars.

    • Photo: Andrew Philp

      Andrew Philp answered on 19 Nov 2014:

      Great answer from Duane here, not much more i can add sorry….

    • Photo: Katie Pickering

      Katie Pickering answered on 21 Nov 2014:

      Ccan’t add anymore

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