It is a shift of a chromosomal segment to another location of the same or a different chromosome.
Non-reciprocal translocation is a distinct form of translocation than reciprocal translocation.
It is a one-way transfer of a chromosomal fragment from one chromosome to another.
Non-reciprocal translocation is risky if it results in the formation of a chromosome with two chromatids (dicentric chromosome). In the next mitosis, two centromeres of one sister chromatid might get linked to opposing spindle poles.
When the spindle elongates in anaphase, this configuration causes the chromatid to be ripped in two.
This results in a pair of broken DNA ends that merge with additional broken ends, resulting in more translocation.
This results in a second cycle of chromosomal fusion and breaking.
The most common kind of translocation is reciprocal translocation.
It happens when two non-homologous chromosomes swap chromosomal regions.
Reciprocal translocation involves two chromosomal segments, whereas non-reciprocal translocation involves just one chromosomal segment. Both are kinds of intrachromosomal translocation, and both structural rearrangements cause large alterations in the DNA, resulting in mutation.