Define heteroploidy. List the various types of changes ni chromosome number. Briefly describe the modes of origin of aneuploids and their applications in crop improvement.

Sourav PanSeptember 14, 2024

Answered

Heteroploidy

Heteroploidy refers to a condition in which the chromosome number of an organism deviates from the standard euploid number, but it does not conform to typical classifications of aneuploidy or polyploidy. It encompasses variations in chromosome number that result in non-standard ploidy levels. Essentially, heteroploidy involves deviations from the expected chromosomal count, leading to a range of chromosome numbers that fall outside normal diploidy and polyploidy.

Types of Changes in Chromosome Number

1. Aneuploidy:
   • Definition: An abnormal number of chromosomes that is not an exact multiple of the basic chromosome set.
   • Types:
     • Nullisomics (2n – 2): Missing one entire chromosome pair.
     • Monosomics (2n – 1): Missing a single chromosome.
     • Double Monosomics (2n – 1 – 1): Missing two chromosomes, each from different pairs.
     • Trisomics (2n + 1): Having an extra chromosome.
     • Double Trisomics (2n + 1 + 1): Having two extra chromosomes, each from different pairs.
     • Tetrasomics (2n + 2): Having an additional pair of chromosomes.
2. Euploidy:
   • Definition: Changes involving entire sets of chromosomes, where the chromosome number is a multiple of the basic chromosome number.
   • Types:
     • Monoploids (x): One set of chromosomes.
     • Diploids (2x): Two sets of chromosomes.
     • Polyploids: More than two sets of chromosomes (triploids, tetraploids, hexaploids, etc.).

Modes of Origin of Aneuploidy and Their Applications in Crop Improvement

1. Modes of Origin:
   • Non-Disjunction during Meiosis: Failure of chromosomes to separate properly during meiosis can result in gametes with abnormal chromosome numbers. Fertilization of such gametes can lead to aneuploid individuals.
   • Non-Disjunction during Mitosis: Errors in chromosome separation during mitosis can lead to somatic aneuploid cells. These can contribute to aneuploidy in the resulting organism if they occur in germ cells.
   • Chromosome Loss or Addition: Direct loss or addition of chromosomes during cell division can result in aneuploidy. This may occur due to structural abnormalities or failures in cell division machinery.
2. Applications in Crop Improvement:
   • Gene Mapping and Linkage Studies: Aneuploid lines, particularly monosomics and trisomics, are valuable for studying gene linkage and chromosome mapping. By observing the effects of missing or extra chromosomes, researchers can identify the locations of specific genes.
   • Breeding for Specific Traits: Aneuploidy can be used to develop plants with desirable traits by exploiting the effects of extra or missing chromosomes. For instance, trisomic plants may exhibit unique phenotypic characteristics that can be harnessed in breeding programs.
   • Creating Genetic Variability: Introducing aneuploidy into breeding programs can generate new genetic variations. These variations can be used to create new varieties with enhanced traits, such as improved disease resistance or yield.
   • Studying Chromosome Behavior: Aneuploid individuals provide insights into chromosome behavior during cell division, helping to understand fundamental aspects of genetics and improve breeding techniques.