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Recombination of the Y Chromosome

Topic

  • Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
  • DNA & RNA
  • Cell Biology
  • Cell Cycle

Resource Type

  • Videos
  • Animations

Level

High School — GeneralHigh School — AP/IBCollege

Duration

00:02:46
Saved By
3 Users
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Description

This animation shows how recombination occurs between the X and Y chromosomes, then within the Y chromosome itself.

Most chromosomes recombine with their partners along their entire lengths, as illustrated in the first part of the animation. Modern X and Y chromosomes, however, recombine only at their tips. DNA sequences in the middle of the chromosomes do not recombine, so they are more likely to accumulate mutations and degenerate over the course of evolution.

Sequencing of the Y chromosome has revealed many palindromic sequences in its middle section. As shown in a later part of the animation, these palindromic sections may allow the Y chromosome to recombine with itself, to either repair mutated genes or to copy mutations between its arms. In this way, the Y chromosome is able to maintain its genome over evolutionary timescales.

Note that this animation has no audio. Depending on students’ background, it may be helpful to pause the animation at various points to discuss different structures or steps in the recombination processes.

Key Terms

allosome, crossing over, DNA, gene conversion, homologous recombination, mutation, palindrome, sex chromosome

Terms of Use

Please see the Terms of Use for information on how this resource can be used.

Version History

Date Published 02.01.01

Materials

Large (MOV) 5 MB

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