Glossary
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Y
| Y chromosome: |
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The sex chromosome that is found, together with an X chromosome, in most normal males. The Y chromosome contains the unique male-determining gene and the male fitness genes that are active only in the testis and are responsible for the formation of sperm. Other genes on the Y chromosome have counterparts on the X chromosome, are active in many body tissues, and play crucial 'housekeeping' roles with the cell. |
| Y chromatin: |
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A brilliantly fluorescent body seen under the microscope in cells containing a Y chromosome when the cells are stained with the dye quinacrine. Quinacrine lights up the Y chromosome more than other chromosomes. |