Synapsis

Definition

Synapsis is the pairing of homologous chromosomes during meiosis. It occurs during prophase I and facilitates genetic recombination.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Synapsis happens during prophase I of meiosis.
2. It involves the alignment of homologous chromosomes to form tetrads.
3. The process is crucial for crossing over and genetic variation.
4. Synaptonemal complex forms between homologous chromosomes to hold them together.
5. Errors in synapsis can lead to chromosomal abnormalities such as nondisjunction.

Review Questions

• During which phase of meiosis does synapsis occur?
• What structure forms between homologous chromosomes to facilitate synapsis?
• Why is synapsis important for genetic variation?

Related terms

Meiosis: A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four haploid cells.

Homologous Chromosomes: Pairs of chromosomes that have the same size, shape, and genes at corresponding loci.

Crossing Over: The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during synapsis in meiosis.