Glossary
Axoneme
The core of microtubules, usually in a ‘9 + 2’ array, at the centre of cilium or flagellum.
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Chemotaxin
A chemical that promotes the movement of cells or micro-organisms during chemotaxis.
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Chemotaxis
Movement along a concentration gradient towards or away from a chemical stimulus.
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Chromatid
One of 2 genetically identical bodies of a metaphase chromosome. Sister chromatids are joined at the centromere.
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Chromosome
A complex of DNA and protein that carries the genetic material of a cell’s nucleus. There are normally 46 chromosomes in cells apart from gametes (sperm and egg) that have 23.
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Daughter cells
Cells that arise from parent cells by mitosis or meiosis (cell division).
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Diploid (2n)
A cell or organism that possesses chromosomes in homologous pairs.
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Ectopic pregnancy
Pregnancy in an abnormal location due to implantation in a region other than the uterus. E.g. the uterine tubes.
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Embryo
A developing individual from the end of the 2nd week of gestation (when the 3 primary germ layers have formed) through to the end of the 8th week (when all of the organ systems are present).
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Endometrium
The lining of the uterine wall. It is the site of implantation and cause of menstrual discharge.
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