Karyotype

Definition

A karyotype is a complete set of chromosomes in an individual organism's cells, visually presented as a photograph or diagram showing the number and appearance of chromosomes. It is used to examine chromosomal abnormalities and to determine the gender of an organism.

Related terms

Chromosome:

A structure made of DNA and protein that contains the genes which determine heredity traits.

Gene:

A segment of DNA on a chromosome that codes for a specific trait or protein in an organism.

Genetic disorder: A disease or condition caused by an abnormality in an individual's DNA, often identified through karyotyping