Definition
Following DNA replication, as part of cell division, each chromosome consists of two full length DNA molecules joined at the centromere. These two DNA molecules are sister chromatids.
Use in clinical context
Prior to cell division each chromosome is duplicated. These duplicated chromosomes remain attached to each other by the centromere until just before the cell divides in mitosis or before the second cell division in meiosis. Aneuploidy results if the chromatids do not separate properly.
Related terms
Aneuploidy | Centromere | Chromatid | Chromosome | Meiosis | Mitosis
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