These thread-like structures, located within the nucleus of animal and plant cells, are composed of DNA tightly coiled around proteins called histones. Each one contains numerous genes, which carry the instructions for an organism’s traits and functions. For example, humans have 23 pairs, totaling 46, arranged in a specific structure that helps ensure accurate cell division and genetic inheritance.
They are vital for transmitting genetic information from one generation to the next. Their accurate replication and segregation during cell division are essential for maintaining genetic stability and preventing diseases. Understanding their structure and function has revolutionized fields like medicine, agriculture, and evolutionary biology, enabling advancements such as gene therapy, crop improvement, and tracing ancestral lineages.
