How are genes selected for combination in sperm and egg cells?

[bassplayer142]

I read that genes are selected at random from both chromosomes to be put together in the sperm or the egg. And that every sperm or egg has the potential of being a different human being. Exactly what is the process at which these genes are selected? thanks

 

[Monique]

Let's see if this answer your question: most cells in your body are diploid (of every chromosome there are two copies), in order to make a gamete (egg or sperm) it has to be haploid. So during meiosis half of the chromosomes are extruded into a polar body, which means there is a loss of half of the genetic information. BUT, during meiosis there is a process that goes on where the homologous chromosomes crossover and exchange genetic material through recombination. This means that the content of the chromosomes are shuffled, which increases genetic diversity. There is no process that selects genes to 'be put into germ cells', however, it is of course very important that the germ cell gets one copy of each chromosome (and this is accomplished by aligning chromosomes before segregating them).

 

[mazinse]

I read that genes are selected at random from both chromosomes to be put together in the sperm or the egg. And that every sperm or egg has the potential of being a different human being. Exactly what is the process at which these genes are selected? thanks

Yeah you are thinking of Meiosis. Now don't use the word random too freely.

 

[bassplayer142]

Sorry about getting back to the question so late. Thanks for the input and I'll be sure to read into that more.