sex chromatin

Friendly

Word: Sex Chromatin

Definition

Sex chromatin is a type of chromatin (which is a material in cells that contains DNA) that is found only in female cells. It helps scientists identify the sex of a fetus.

Usage Instructions

• Use "sex chromatin" when discussing genetics, biology, or medical topics, especially related to determining the sex of an unborn baby.
• It's a technical term, so it’s often used in scientific or medical contexts.

Example

• "The presence of sex chromatin in the sample taken during amniocentesis indicates that the fetus is female."

Advanced Usage

• In genetics, sex chromatin can be analyzed to understand various conditions associated with sex chromosomes, such as Turner syndrome or Klinefelter syndrome.

Word Variants

• Chromatin: A broader term that refers to the combination of DNA and proteins in the nucleus of a cell.
• Sex Chromosome: Refers to the chromosomes that determine the sex of an individual (X and Y chromosomes).

Different Meanings

• In a broader context, "chromatin" itself can refer to any type of chromatin in the cell, not just sex chromatin.

Synonyms

• There aren’t direct synonyms for "sex chromatin," but related terms might include:
  • Barr body: Another term that refers to the inactive X chromosome in female cells, which is a form of sex chromatin.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs related to "sex chromatin," as it is a scientific term. However, in general conversation about genetics, you might encounter phrases like:
  • "To break down the genetics" which means to analyze or explain genetic information.

Summary

"Sex chromatin" is a specific term used in biology and medicine to identify female cells.

Academic

Noun

1. chromatin found only in female cells
   • the presence or absence of sex chromatin in cells obtained by amniocentesis makes it possible to determine the sex of a fetus