ALL ABOUT THE

CHROMOSOMES
 WHAT IS A CHROMOSOME?
• In the nucleus of each cell, the DNA molecule is
packaged into thread-like structures called
chromosomes. Each chromosome is made up of
DNA tightly coiled many times around proteins
called histones that support its structure.
• Chromosomes are not visible in the cell’s nucleus
—not even under a microscope—when the cell is
not dividing. However, the DNA that makes up
chromosomes becomes more tightly packed
during cell division and is then visible under a
microscope.
THE PARTS OF THE
CHROMOSOME
 The types of chromosomes
• Based on the position of Centromere,
chromosomes are grouped into Four
types.
1. Metacentric

2. Submetacentric

3. Telocentric

4. Acrocentric
 METACENTRIC CHROMOSOMES
In Metacentric Chromosomes the
centromere is median in position and the
two arms are equal in length. Thus,
Metacentric Chromosomes appears in 'V'
shape in anaphase stage of cell division.
 SUBMETACENTRIC CHROMOSOMES

Submetacentric Chromosomes are

also called Heterobrachal. In this
type the kinetochore is sub median
in position. The arms are unequal in
length and resemble the lettar 'L' in
shape.
 TELOCENTRIC CHROMOSOMES

Telocentric Chromosomes are also called

monarchial type. In this type the centromere
is located at the end of chromosomes. As
such it has 'rod' shaped appearance. 
 ACROCENTRIC CHROMOSOMES

In Acrocentric Chromosomes the centromere is

subterminal in position or located near the end
of the chromosomes.
 FUNCTION OF CHROMOSOME
• Chromosomes are essential for the process
of cell division, are responsible for
replication, division, and creation of daughter
cells which contain correct sequences of
DNA and proteins.

• Chromosomes are often called as the

'packaging material', because it tightly holds
the DNA and proteins together in the
eukaryotic cells.
THE END
PRESENTED BY: Liberty P. Bactad