TELOSYNAPSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Telosynapsis is a biological term derived from the combination of two Greek words: "telos," meaning end or completion, and "synapsis," referring to the fusion or pairing of homologous chromosomes. It is a specific process that occurs during meiosis, a type of cell division that forms haploid cells, such as gametes (sperm and egg cells) in sexually reproductive organisms.
During meiosis, the homologous chromosomes (chromosome pairs similar in size and genetic content) undergo synapsis, where they align and exchange genetic material in a process called recombination or crossing over. Telosynapsis is the final stage of synapsis - it signifies the completion of the pairing and exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes.
Telosynapsis involves the connection and attachment of the chromosomes at their distal ends or telomeres, forming a bivalent structure known as a chiasma. This connection ensures the proper segregation of chromosomes during the subsequent stages of meiosis, leading to the creation of genetically diverse haploid cells.
The accurate completion of telosynapsis is crucial for successful meiotic division, as errors or disruptions at this stage can result in chromosomal abnormalities, such as aneuploidy or non-disjunction. Understanding the mechanisms and regulation of telosynapsis can provide insights into the genetic diversity and inheritance patterns observed in sexually reproducing organisms, contributing to advancements in genetics, reproduction, and evolutionary biology.
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Union of chromosomes end to end in the process of "reduction.".
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TELOSYNAPSIS
