kromosome

Kromosome is a term that appears in some contexts as an alternative spelling or fictional variant of the biological unit commonly known as a chromosome. In formal scientific literature and standard teaching, the spelling “chromosome” is used. The variant “kromosome” may reflect transliteration choices in languages that render the initial sound with a hard k, or it may appear in speculative or fictional writings.

Chromosomes are structures that carry genetic material in cells. They are made of DNA packaged with proteins called histones. Eukaryotic chromosomes are linear and located in the nucleus, and organisms typically carry a haploid set or a diploid complement of chromosomes. Prokaryotic chromosomes are usually circular and reside in the cytoplasm. Chromosomes are organized to ensure proper replication and distribution during cell division. Key features include the centromere, which constrains sister chromatids during separation, and telomeres, which protect chromosome ends.

In humans, somatic cells contain 46 chromosomes in 23 pairs: 22 autosomes and 1 pair of sex chromosomes (XX or XY). Chromosomes contain many genes and regulatory elements; genetic variation arises through mutations, recombination, and the inheritance of parental alleles. During mitosis and meiosis, chromosomes are replicated and segregated to ensure accurate genetic transmission to daughter cells and gametes.

In genetics research and synthetic biology, the term “chromosome” can also refer to engineered or synthetic chromosome-like constructs. A fictional or speculative use of “kromosome” may denote such engineered units or serve as a stylistic variant in literature.

See also: Chromosome, Karyotype, Genome, DNA.