How do chromosomes relate to DNA? Why do they exist at all, if all genetic information is stored in a single strand of DNA within the cell? I read that chromosomes only form when cells are about to divide – if so, why is this necessary and what determines how many chromosomes are formed?
In: 18
Each chromosome is a single continuous strand of DNA. It’s really only simplistic single-celled organisms like bacteria that store all their genetic info on one strand or one loop without proper chromosomes.
There may some confusion in terminology. In some cellular biology contexts, “chromosomes” only refers to the DNA strand once it’s bundled up with the connecting proteins attached and ready for cell division. The rest of the time, DNA is just generally called chromatin. The divisions are still the same regardless of what state the DNA is in though.
Latest Answers