Y chromosome

Key findings:

• Researchers have discovered that the Y chromosome possesses genes that are vital to biological functions, including those linked to ageing and lifespan regulation.
• Genome sequences of the Neanderthals, an ancient relative of the modern human, harbour telltale signs of the replacement of the Y chromosome beginning from modern humans. 
• The Y chromosome may have to relinquish its title of “master of maleness” to another chromosome in the times to come.

What is a chromosome?

• It is a thread-like structure located inside the nucleus of animal and plant cells.
• Each chromosome is made of protein and a single molecule of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA).
• It is passed from parents to offspring.
• DNA contains the specific instructions that make each type of living creature unique.
• In humans, in addition to the 22 pairs of chromosomes in each, we have a pair of sex chromosomes called X and Y.
• All biological males have X and Y chromosomes and all biological females have two X chromosomes.
• The y chromosome known as the “master of maleness,” determines the biological male sex and carries genes that play a role in sex determination.