Y Chromosome Meaning

In therian mammals, such as humans and many other animals, the Y chromosome is one of the two sex chromosomes (allosomes). The X chromosome is the other. In several species, the presence or absence of the Y chromosome determines whether the offspring are born male or female, making it the sex-determining chromosome in these species.

Each cell in an individual typically contains one set of sex chromosomes. Males possess one X and one Y chromosome, whereas females possess two X chromosomes.

Y Chromosome Structure

The human Y chromosome is similar in size to chromosome 19 and has roughly 59 million base pairs of DNA. Only fathers and sons share the Y chromosome.

The SRY gene, found on the Y chromosome in mammals, causes male embryonic development. Other genes required for typical sperm production can also be found on the Y chromosomes of mammals and humans.

However, there are a few exceptions. In humans, some men have the “XXY” syndrome (two Xs and a Y), or the “XYY syndrome”(one X and two Ys), while some females have a single X instead of a double X or three Xs. Other exceptions occur when SRY is damaged (resulting in an XY female) or transferred to the X (resulting in an XX male).

Related Links:

Main Page: BYJU’S NEET

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

Why is the Y chromosome Y-shaped?

It is false to believe that the Y chromosome was given its name because it resembles the letter “Y.” All chromosomes have a vague X-shaped structure. Under the microscope, all chromosomes are usually seen as amorphous lumps that only take on a distinct structure during mitosis.

Why is the Y chromosome smaller?

The Y chromosome shrinks not because it has only one copy and cannot undergo recombination, but because it continues to experience weak selection pressure.

Define Loss of Y chromosome (LOY).

Some male cells may become devoid of Y chromosomes as they age. As a result, there are genetic mutations in which cells from the same person have various genotypes. Men are known to be more susceptible to this if they smoke, and LOY has been associated with a shorter life span.

Table of Contents