unit artifact : human karyotype chart
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The artifact that I have chosen for the genetics unit is the human karyotype chart that I created as part of an assignment. This chart was made from a sheet given in class. The worksheet had many chromosomes scattered all over the paper in complete random order and patterns. The task was to organize the chromosomes into pairs and identify any genetic abnormalities the patient may have. We were to compare our chromosome charts to a normal karyotype chart and identify if any parts were missing or added, and from that conclude a diagnosis. To create the chart, I first matched all the chromosomes with its identical pair. Then, I organized the chromosomes based off size and pattern. After creating the karyotype, I noticed my individual contained an extra x chromosome. I referred back to the chart given in the assignment sheet and determined that my patient has Klinefelters Syndrome, which has the chromosome abnormality of XXY.
Human karyotypes are a key in genetic testing for chromosomal abnormalities. Karyotypes allow geneticists to determine and diagnose medical conditions of a patient by examining their chromosomes. Karyotypes are best captured in metaphase 1 of meiosis because all the chromosomes line up along the equator and a clear image can be captured. In a normal human karyotype, there are 23 pairs of chromosomes. One of these pairs are the sex chromosomes of the individual which play a role in determining the sex of the individual, while the rest of the pairs are autosomal. Any variations from the standard karyotype propose genetic abnormalities that will affect the development of the individual.
This artifact is significant to me because it showed me how even the smallest details and variations can leave enormous impacts on an individuals life. There are several genetic disorders that occur due to chromosomal errors. For instance, a trisomy in a chromosome pair #21 leads to Downs Syndrome. This slightest addition leads to physical growth delays and intellectual disabilities. We also learned about Turners syndrome (XO), Klinefelters syndrome (XXY), Edward's syndrome (Trisomy#18), and a few more. Through this activity, I learned about these different conditions and their effects on individuals. Also, I learned how to identify them from a karyotype.
The knowledge and skills I have gained from this activity are valuable and important. I don't think that analyzing or creating a karyotype can be incorporated into every day tasks because it is has a specific purpose, which is diagnosing chromosomal abnormalities. However, this activity does emphasize the fact that the littlest details can severely impact the overall project. This can help me perform better with daily tasks and always keep in mind to check over my work. If I make a mistake during a school assignment, constructing a tool, or even forgetting to lock my front door, I will remember that the consequences for these little variations can result in serious situations. Additionally, I do plan on pursing biology in my post secondary education. Learning about karyotypes and genetic disorders through this activity has created some basic understanding of the material I will most likely learn more about in the near future.
The human karyotype assignment has helped me grasp the concepts of the unit better. It allowed me to visually see how errors in cell division like non-disjunction, can result in chromosomal abnormalities like Downs Syndrome and Turners Syndrome. At first, I didn't really understand why non-disjunction was important and relevant to the genetics unit, however through this activity I saw that it stimulates trisomies and monosomies that cause the well-known disorders I was familiar with. I have always known about genetic abnormalities and been in contact with individuals that have them, like Downs syndrome, but I never actually understood how it occurred. After completing this unit and assignment, I have a much clearer perspective and knowledge on chromosome abnormalities and defects.
Human karyotypes are a key in genetic testing for chromosomal abnormalities. Karyotypes allow geneticists to determine and diagnose medical conditions of a patient by examining their chromosomes. Karyotypes are best captured in metaphase 1 of meiosis because all the chromosomes line up along the equator and a clear image can be captured. In a normal human karyotype, there are 23 pairs of chromosomes. One of these pairs are the sex chromosomes of the individual which play a role in determining the sex of the individual, while the rest of the pairs are autosomal. Any variations from the standard karyotype propose genetic abnormalities that will affect the development of the individual.
This artifact is significant to me because it showed me how even the smallest details and variations can leave enormous impacts on an individuals life. There are several genetic disorders that occur due to chromosomal errors. For instance, a trisomy in a chromosome pair #21 leads to Downs Syndrome. This slightest addition leads to physical growth delays and intellectual disabilities. We also learned about Turners syndrome (XO), Klinefelters syndrome (XXY), Edward's syndrome (Trisomy#18), and a few more. Through this activity, I learned about these different conditions and their effects on individuals. Also, I learned how to identify them from a karyotype.
The knowledge and skills I have gained from this activity are valuable and important. I don't think that analyzing or creating a karyotype can be incorporated into every day tasks because it is has a specific purpose, which is diagnosing chromosomal abnormalities. However, this activity does emphasize the fact that the littlest details can severely impact the overall project. This can help me perform better with daily tasks and always keep in mind to check over my work. If I make a mistake during a school assignment, constructing a tool, or even forgetting to lock my front door, I will remember that the consequences for these little variations can result in serious situations. Additionally, I do plan on pursing biology in my post secondary education. Learning about karyotypes and genetic disorders through this activity has created some basic understanding of the material I will most likely learn more about in the near future.
The human karyotype assignment has helped me grasp the concepts of the unit better. It allowed me to visually see how errors in cell division like non-disjunction, can result in chromosomal abnormalities like Downs Syndrome and Turners Syndrome. At first, I didn't really understand why non-disjunction was important and relevant to the genetics unit, however through this activity I saw that it stimulates trisomies and monosomies that cause the well-known disorders I was familiar with. I have always known about genetic abnormalities and been in contact with individuals that have them, like Downs syndrome, but I never actually understood how it occurred. After completing this unit and assignment, I have a much clearer perspective and knowledge on chromosome abnormalities and defects.