Meiosis is a specialized type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the production of four haploid gametes from a single diploid cell. This process is crucial for sexual reproduction and contributes to genetic diversity through the recombination of genetic material.
Meiosis meaning with examples
- In humans, Meiosis occurs in the formation of sperm and eggs, allowing for the genetic material from two parents to mix during fertilization, contributing to genetic diversity in the offspring.
- Researchers at the university studied Meiosis in fruit flies to understand the mechanisms that lead to chromosomal abnormalities, which can result in genetic disorders in offspring or infertility.
- During Meiosis, homologous chromosomes are separated in a series of stages, including prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, each playing a vital role in ensuring proper chromosome distribution.
- The failure of Meiosis can lead to aneuploidy, where cells have an abnormal number of chromosomes, which is often observed in conditions like Down syndrome.
- Meiosis is often contrasted with mitosis, the latter being the process that results in the division of somatic cells, allowing for growth and tissue repair rather than reproduction.
Meiosis Synonyms
cell division cellular division chromatid segregation chromosomal reduction chromosome separation dimorphic division diplotene fertilization process gamete formation genetic exchange genetic reduction haploid division haploidization meiotical meiotically pairing recombination reduction division reductive division sexual reproductionMeiosis Antonyms
asexual reproduction cell proliferation cell replication cellular growth chromosome duplication clonal reproduction genomic duplicity growth division mitosis multiplication non-reductive division nonsexual reproduction nuclear division somatic division somatic growth somatic multiplication synchronous division tissue development uniparental reproduction vegetative reproductionMeiosis Crossword Answers
6 Letters
MIOSIS
7 Letters
LITOTES
17 Letters
REDUCTIONDIVISION