What is the Y Chromosome ?
A chromosome is a lengthy DNA molecule that contains all or parts of an organism's genetic material. Histones, which are found in most eukaryotic chromosomes, attach to and condense the DNA molecule with the help of chaperone proteins to keep it intact. The three-dimensional structure of these chromosomes is important for transcriptional control. Only during the metaphase of cell division do chromosomes become visible under a light microscope (where all chromosomes are aligned in the center of the cell in their condensed form).
In therian mammals, including humans and many other species, the Y chromosome is one of two sex chromosomes. The X chromosome is the third. In many animals, the presence or absence of Y determines whether offspring produced during sexual reproduction are male or female. The gene SRY, which regulates male development in mammals, is found on the Y chromosome.
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