Y chromosome

the sex chromosome that is responsible for determining maleness in humans and other mammals. The body cells of normal males possess one Y chromosome and one X chromosome (XY). The Y chromosome is much smaller than the X chromosome and is thought to carry just a handful of functioning genes. Hence, males are far more susceptible to sex-linked diseases than females, because the Y chromosome lacks the alleles to counteract any defective genes carried on the X chromosome.

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Psychology term of the day

November 18th 2024

meningoencephalitis

n. inflammation of the brain and the meninges covering it.