Chromosomal Rearrangement

Chromosomal rearrangement refers to changes in the structure of chromosomes, which are the thread-like molecules carrying genetic information. These changes occur when sections of DNA within or between chromosomes break and are rejoined incorrectly. Types include deletions (loss of parts), duplications (extra copies), inversions (reversal of sections), and translocations (movement of segments between chromosomes). Such rearrangements can alter gene function and may lead to genetic disorders or increased disease risk, but sometimes they have no effect. They are natural events that contribute to genetic diversity and evolution.