Dosage Compensation

Dosage compensation is a biological mechanism that balances the expression of genes on sex chromosomes between males and females. Since females have two X chromosomes and males have one X and one Y, dosage compensation ensures that genes on the X chromosome are expressed at similar levels in both sexes. In humans, this is achieved through processes like X-inactivation, where one of the female's X chromosomes is mostly turned off, preventing an overabundance of X-linked gene products. This regulation maintains a proper balance of gene expression critical for normal development and cellular function across sexes.