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![Pronounciation of
chromosome](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20090305014436im_/http://www.genome.gov/Images/Glossary/Pronounciation/chromosome.gif)
defined: |
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One of the threadlike "packages" of genes and other DNA in the nucleus of a cell. Different kinds of organisms have different numbers of chromosomes. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, 46 in all: 44 autosomes and two sex chromosomes. Each parent contributes one chromosome to each pair, so children get half of their chromosomes from their mothers and half from their fathers.
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explained: |
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Listen to a detailed explanation. (Requires the free RealPlayer download)
Dr. Eric Green, of the National Human Genome Research Institute's Genome Technology Branch, defines chromosome.
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illustrated: |
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View illustration
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related terms: |
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20090305014436im_/http://www.genome.gov/Images/spacer2.gif) |
autosome,
birth defect,
cell,
deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA),
gene,
nucleus,
protein,
sex chromosome |
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