autosome

n. any chromosome that is not a sex chromosome. A human normally has a total of 44 autosomes (arranged in 22 homologous pairs) in the nucleus of each body cell, although irregular numbers may occur through the loss or addition of one or more autosomes. If a homologous pair of autosomes has an extra chromosome, the condition is called trisomy. If one member of a homologous pair is absent, the condition is called monosomy.

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Psychology term of the day

November 18th 2024

parathyroid gland

a small, paired endocrine gland found in the area of the thyroid gland. It secretes parathyroid hormone, which takes part in the control of calcium and phosphate metabolism.