Chromosome/cell division

[sykosat2004]

Hey what is the importance of the exact copying of chromosomes before cell division? Cheers

[dynamicduo]

Chromosomes carry the genetic information for the organism. Each 'daughter' cell needs to carry an exact copy of this information so that it too can carry out its various functions. Any 'mistake' in the copying would mean that the daughter cells would carry the wrong information. Really bad copying would mean the daughter cell would not survive but slight changes can lead to a mutation. This is particularly important in the formation of gametes as any mistakes here would then be carried through to the next generation. Otherwise it results in somatic mutations affecting that particular lineage of cells.

Note that whilst all cells in the body carry the same information and therefore have the same potential, only a small part of the information is expressed in the mature cell (determined by a number of factors including the immediate environment).