Resources

List by Alphabet: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Acrocentric chromosome

An acrocentric chromosome is a type of chromosome that has a centromere located near one end, resulting in a long arm (q-arm) and a very short arm (p-arm). The term "acrocentric" is derived from the Greek words "akros" meaning "end", and "kentron" meaning "center." Acrocentric chromosomes are named based on their relative size and location of the centromere.

In humans, there are five acrocentric chromosomes: chromosomes 13, 14, 15, 21, and 22. These chromosomes play essential roles in genetic processes and carry specific genes associated with various genetic disorders.

One distinctive feature of acrocentric chromosomes is the presence of secondary constrictions, also known as nucleolar organizers, near the centromere. These secondary constrictions contain ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, which are involved in the production of ribosomes, the cellular structures responsible for protein synthesis.

Acrocentric chromosomes are involved in the formation of structures called nucleoli, which are responsible for the synthesis and assembly of ribosomes. During cell division, the nucleoli disappear as the acrocentric chromosomes condense, and new nucleoli form in the daughter cells.

Structural abnormalities involving acrocentric chromosomes, such as translocations or rearrangements, can have significant implications. For example, Robertsonian translocations, where two acrocentric chromosomes fuse at their centromeres, can occur. These translocations are associated with certain genetic disorders, including Down syndrome (resulting from a translocation involving chromosome 21) and certain types of cancers.

Related Biology Tools

  • GenSmart™ Codon Optimization

    GenSmart Optimization is a free online tool for performing codon optimization to improve gene expression. GenScript's patented algorithms are integrated into the tool to optimize the computing capability of high-performance sequence generation.

    Learn More

  • DNA Construct Design Tool

    GenSmart™ Design is a free online DNA construct design tool developed by GenScript. GenSmart™ Design has two design modules, the Create Construct module for individual plasmid design and the Create Library module for DNA library design.

    Learn More

  • Codon Frequency Tables

    This online tool shows commonly used genetic codon frequency table in expression host organisms including Escherichia coli and other common host organisms.

    Learn More

Service and Products

Custom Peptide Synthesis

GenScript has been providing reliable custom peptides synthesis services for 10,000+ scientists worldwide for 17 years.

Neoantigen Peptide Service

Reliable Neoantigen Peptides for Precision Therapeutic Discovery.

cGMP Peptide Synthesis

GenScript cGMP peptide synthesis service offers therapeutic peptides of quantities up to 2 kg per project.

Large-scale Peptide Synthesis

From 100 mg to 2 kg scale synthesis of peptides, exclusive fully automated synthesizer, one-on-one project management.

Cosmetic Peptide Synthesis

GenScript offers high quality cosmetic peptides at milligram to kilogram quantities.

Click Peptide Synthesis Service

GenScript’s featured click peptide service is designed to handle with low water-solubility and aggregative nature of hydrophobic peptide.

If you know of any terms that have been omitted from this glossary that you feel would be useful to include, please send detail to the Editorial Office at GenScript: [email protected]

If your term is adopted, we will send 1,000 EzCoupon points to your GenScript account.