The Chromosome X and the Human Genome

2017 | Medical & Veterinary

The human genome, i.e. the entire genetic code of humans, contains 20.000 to 30.000 genes that constitute the base pairs of the DNA as segments of a text containing 6 billion segments assembled of the letters A, G, T, C. These are in turn contained in each human cell in the form of 46 chromosomes. The X-chromosome, or "chromosome 23" is the gender determining chromosome. On the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the complete sequencing of the human genome, BENTELI presents this natural masterpiece: Across around 600 pages, Chromosom X and the Human Genome shows the total base sequence of the DNA of a human X chromosome. As in the entire genome, this sequence of bases is unique to each individual. However, the differences in the sequence are very small, diverging by a mere one in one thousand letters. However, these minor differences considerably affect our looks and susceptibility to illnesses. The vast and intricate amount of information of the human genome, which is presented in this volume based on the X chromosome, illustrates the practically unlimited scope of human individuality that is inherent in every single cell.

The sequence of letters is interrupted by essays on special aspects of cell biology.

Ernst Hafen (Author)