Micronucleus
Micronucleus
Micronucleus (/maɪkroʊˈnjuːkliəs/; plural: micronuclei) is a small, extranuclear body formed from the remnants of chromosomes or chromatids that were not incorporated into one of the daughter nuclei during cellular division.
Etymology
The term "micronucleus" is derived from the Greek words micros meaning small and karyon meaning nucleus.
Related Terms
- Chromosome: A thread-like structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes.
- Chromatid: Each of the two thread-like strands into which a chromosome divides longitudinally during cell division. Each contains a double helix of DNA.
- Cell Division: The process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells.
- Nucleus (cell): A membrane-bound organelle that contains the cell's chromosomes. Pores in the nuclear membrane allow for the passage of molecules in and out of the nucleus.
Function
Micronuclei are primarily used in toxicological and radiation studies as an indicator of genotoxicity and chromosomal instability. The presence of micronuclei indicates that the cells have undergone genomic damage.
Detection
Micronuclei can be detected using various techniques such as fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), flow cytometry, and microscopy.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Micronucleus
- Wikipedia's article - Micronucleus
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