Content Standard 8 Describe the function of chromosomes

Eligible Content • Recognize that chromosomes control cell processes and determine traits of an entire organism

Chromosome Functions • • • Regulate the proteins of cells Determine the gender of an individual Influence or determine the traits of the entire organism Determine height, eye color Contain the genetic instructions to control cell processes • Contain instructions to form new cells • The codes in chromosomes determine what proteins the cell will produce.

Chromosome location • Chromosomes of Eukaryotic cells are found inside the nucleus and can not leave the nucleus • Chromosomes in Prokaryotic cells are found within the cytoplasm ( NO nucleus – prokaryotic cells)

Chromosome Structure • Composed of protein and DNA Short Arm • Every chromosome contains a single molecule of DNA spooled around protein cores. • It is a single piece of coiled DNA containing many genes • Chromosomes also contain DNA-bound proteins, which serve to package the DNA and control its functions. centromere Long Arm Chromatid

• A chromosome is an organized structure of DNA and protein that is found in cells. It is a single piece of coiled DNA containing many genes, • Typically, eukaryotic cells (cells with nuclei) have large linear chromosomes and prokaryotic cells (cells without defined nuclei) have smaller circular chromosomes, • The prokaryotes – bacteria and archaea – typically have a single circular chromosomes. • Typically, eukaryotic cells very long DNA molecules to fit into the cell nucleus • Compaction of the duplicated chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis results in the classic four-arm structure