Recently, researchers have discovered that the Y chromosome possesses genes linked to ageing and lifespan regulation.
Key findings:
- Researchers have discovered that the Y chromosome possesses genes that are vital to biological functions, including those linked to ageing and lifespan regulation.
- Genome sequences of the Neanderthals, an ancient relative of the modern human, harbour telltale signs of the replacement of the Y chromosome beginning from modern humans.
- The Y chromosome may have to relinquish its title of “master of maleness” to another chromosome in the times to come.
What is a chromosome?
- It is a thread-like structure located inside the nucleus of animal and plant cells.
- Each chromosome is made of protein and a single molecule of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA).
- It is passed from parents to offspring.
- DNA contains the specific instructions that make each type of living creature unique.
- In humans, in addition to the 22 pairs of chromosomes in each, we have a pair of sex chromosomes called X and Y.
- All biological males have X and Y chromosomes and all biological females have two X chromosomes.
- The y chromosome known as the “master of maleness,” determines the biological male sex and carries genes that play a role in sex determination.