Structure of chromosome: Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes

Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, one from each parent. The most important function of chromosome is to carry the genetic material from one cell generation to the next. The basic shape of chromosomes is rod-shaped consisting of a centromere and arms. In this article we will discuss about the structure of chromosomes with the help of suitable diagram. Chromosome is present as individual bodies in the interphase as well as in the mitosis. The predominant component in the chromosome is DNA molecule. The genes are located in chromosome of the nucleus and can be called as the discrete unit of transmission of hereditary character, because it is the specific locus or spot on a chromosome carrying the genetic material or information for a ... What are Chromosomes? In the nucleus of each cell, the DNA molecule is packaged into thread-like structures called chromosomes. Each chromosome is made up of DNA tightly coiled many times around proteins called histones that support its structure. Chromosome Structure The chemical composition of a chromosome is histone proteins and DNA. Each cell has a pair of each kind of chromosome known as a homologous chromosome. Chromosomes are made up of chromatin, which contains a single molecule of DNA and associated proteins. Each chromosome contains hundreds and thousands of genes that can precisely code for several proteins in the cell. Structure of a chromosome can be best seen during cell division.