Heredity - Genetics

4. The Human Genome - Karyotypes

How do we know about our DNA?

Scientists can isolate an individual's chromosomes, stain them with dye and lay them out in what is called a Karyotype.

.  (Video explanation)  By comparing Karypotypes, scientists are able to determine if a person has a complete set of chromosomes, if any are missing or duplicated, or if parts are missing. 

Normal Female karyotype showing 2 X's and 46 chromosomes total	Normal Male karyotype showing X and Y and 46 chromosomes total

Try the karyotype activity here.