ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on human eukaryotic cells as basic units of life, including their anatomy (organelles, nucleus, chromosomes) and function. The process of protein production at the cellular level (for growth, body functions, repair) using the recipe of DNA (and the messenger RNA) is explained, as well as the roles of various organelles (endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, mitochondria). The cell division and replication process of mitosis is explained, along with the process of meiosis in the production of human gametes. The importance of variability in meiosis is emphasized, including the role of crossing over, random division of homologous chromosome pairs, and mating between genetically different beings. Problems in meiosis involving nondisjunction of sister chromatids and nondisjunction of homologous pair members are described, including outcomes such as Turner, Klinefelter, Jacob’s, and Down Syndromes.
