Cytogenetics Glossary

noun A chromosome that is not directly involved in determining the sex of an organism, but may carry genes that affect other traits or characteristics.

• The accessory chromosome carries genes that are not essential for the survival of the organism.
• The extra chromosome has genes that are not really necessary for the organism.
• The bonus chromosome has some genes that are just extra.
• The accessory chromosome is like the cherry on top of the genetic sundae.

noun a chromosome that is acrocentric

adjective describing a chromosome in which the centromere is located near one end

• The acrocentric chromosome has its centromere near one end.
• I learned about acrocentric chromosomes in my biology class.
• That chromosome looks kinda acrocentric, don't you think?
• Her acrocentric personality always puts her at the center of attention.