A karyotype is the complete set of chromosomes in an organism, arranged and displayed in a standard format.
Characteristics of Karyotype
- Chromosome Number and Arrangement - A karyotype includes all chromosomes organized by size, shape, and banding pattern. This arrangement helps in identifying chromosomal abnormalities, such as extra or missing chromosomes.
- Homologous Chromosomes - In a karyotype, chromosomes are paired as homologous pairs, where each pair consists of one chromosome from each parent. These pairs are arranged from largest to smallest, followed by the sex chromosomes.
- Use in Genetic Analysis - Karyotyping is a crucial tool in genetic research and clinical diagnostics. It helps in diagnosing genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21) or Turner syndrome, and in studying the chromosomal changes associated with cancers and other genetic conditions.
