What is chromosome 14?
Humans normally have 46 chromosomes in each cell, divided into 23 pairs. Two copies of chromosome 14, one copy inherited from each parent, form one of the pairs. Chromosome 14 spans about 106 million base pairs (the building blocks of DNA) and represents between 3 percent and 3.5 percent of the total DNA in cells.
Identifying genes on each chromosome is an active area of genetic research. Because researchers use different approaches to predict the number of genes on each chromosome, the estimated number of genes varies. Chromosome 14 likely contains between 700 and 1,300 genes.
Genes on chromosome 14 are among the estimated 20,000 to 25,000 total genes in the human genome.
There are many genetic conditions related to genes on chromosome 14.
Is there a standard way to diagram chromosome 14?
Geneticists use diagrams called ideograms as a standard representation for chromosomes. Ideograms show a chromosome's relative size and its banding pattern. A banding pattern is the characteristic pattern of dark and light bands that appears when a chromosome is stained with a chemical solution and then viewed under a microscope. These bands are used to describe the location of genes on each chromosome.
Where can I find additional information about chromosome 14?
You may find the following resources about chromosome 14 helpful. These materials are written for the general public.
- Additional NIH Resources - National Institutes of Health
- Educational resources - Information pages
- MedlinePlus - Health information
You may also be interested in these resources, which are designed for genetics professionals and researchers.
Where can I find general information about chromosomes?
The Handbook provides basic information about genetics in clear language.
These links provide additional genetics resources that may be useful.
What glossary definitions help with understanding chromosome 14?
base pair ;
cell ;
chromosome ;
DNA ;
gene
You may find definitions for these and many other terms in the Genetics Home Reference
Glossary.
The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for
professional medical care or advice. Users seeking information about
a personal genetic disease, syndrome, or condition should consult with a qualified
healthcare professional.
See How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook.
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