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Ch. 3 - Cell Division and Chromosome Heredity
Sanders - Genetic Analysis: An Integrated Approach 3rd Edition
Sanders3rd EditionGenetic Analysis: An Integrated ApproachISBN: 9780135564172Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 3, Problem 32f

From a piece of blank paper, cut out three sets of four cigar-shaped structures (a total of 12 structures). These will represent chromatids. Be sure each member of a set of four chromatids has the same length and girth. In set one, label two chromatids 'A' and two chromatids 'a.' Cut each of these chromatids about halfway across near their midpoint and slide the two 'A' chromatids together at the cuts, to form a single set of attached sister chromatids. Do the same for the 'a' chromatids. In the second set of four chromatids, label two 'B' and two 'b.' Cut and slide these together as you did for the first set, joining the 'B' chromatids together and the 'b' chromatids together. Repeat this process for the third set of chromatids, labeling them as 'D' and 'd.' You now have models for three pairs of homologous chromosomes, for a total of six chromosomes. Align the chromosomes as they might appear at metaphase I of meiosis.

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Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of homologous chromosomes and sister chromatids. Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes, one inherited from each parent, that have the same genes at the same loci but may have different alleles. Sister chromatids are identical copies of a single chromosome, connected at the centromere.
Step 2: Prepare the physical model. Cut out 12 cigar-shaped structures from a blank piece of paper, ensuring that each set of four chromatids has the same length and girth. Label the chromatids in the first set as 'A' and 'a,' the second set as 'B' and 'b,' and the third set as 'D' and 'd.'
Step 3: Simulate the formation of sister chromatids. For each set, cut the chromatids near their midpoint and slide the two chromatids labeled with the same letter together at the cuts. This will form attached sister chromatids for 'A,' 'a,' 'B,' 'b,' 'D,' and 'd.'
Step 4: Arrange the homologous chromosomes. Pair the sister chromatids labeled 'A' with those labeled 'a,' 'B' with 'b,' and 'D' with 'd.' These pairs represent homologous chromosomes, with each pair consisting of one chromosome from each parent.
Step 5: Align the chromosomes as they would appear at metaphase I of meiosis. Place the homologous chromosome pairs side by side along the metaphase plate, ensuring that the sister chromatids within each homologous pair are connected at their centromeres. This arrangement reflects the alignment of homologous chromosomes during metaphase I, preparing for their separation in anaphase I.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Chromatids

Chromatids are the two identical halves of a replicated chromosome, which are joined together at a region called the centromere. During cell division, specifically in meiosis and mitosis, chromatids play a crucial role in ensuring that genetic material is accurately distributed to daughter cells. Each chromatid contains an identical DNA sequence, making them essential for genetic continuity.
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Homologous Chromosomes

Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes that have the same structure and gene sequence but may carry different alleles. One chromosome of each pair is inherited from each parent, and during meiosis, these chromosomes align and can exchange genetic material through a process called crossing over. This genetic variation is vital for evolution and diversity in sexually reproducing organisms.
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Metaphase I of Meiosis

Metaphase I is a stage in meiosis where homologous chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane. This alignment is crucial for the proper segregation of chromosomes into daughter cells. During this phase, spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the homologous pairs, ensuring that each daughter cell receives one chromosome from each pair, which is essential for maintaining the correct chromosome number in gametes.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question

For the retinal cancer retinoblastoma, the inheritance of one mutated copy of RB1 from one of the parents is often referred to as a mutation that produces a 'dominant predisposition to cancer.' This means that the first mutation does not produce cancer but makes it very likely that cancer will develop.

Using RB1⁺ for the normal wild-type allele and RB1⁻ for the mutant allele, identify the genotype of a cell in a retinoblastoma tumor.

Textbook Question

For the retinal cancer retinoblastoma, the inheritance of one mutated copy of RB1 from one of the parents is often referred to as a mutation that produces a 'dominant predisposition to cancer.' This means that the first mutation does not produce cancer but makes it very likely that cancer will develop.


What is the genotype of a normal cell in the retina in a person who has sporadic retinoblastoma? What is the normal cell genotype if the person has hereditary retinoblastoma? Explain the reason for the difference between the genotypes.

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Textbook Question

Examine the following diagrams of cells from an organism with diploid number 2n=6, and identify what stage of M phase is represented.

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Textbook Question

Our closest primate relative, the chimpanzee, has a diploid number of 2n = 48. For each of the following stages of M phase, identify the number of chromosomes present in each cell.

End of mitotic telophase

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Textbook Question

Our closest primate relative, the chimpanzee, has a diploid number of 2n = 48. For each of the following stages of M phase, identify the number of chromosomes present in each cell.

Meiotic metaphase I