noun
- the failure of chromosomes or chromatids to separate properly during cell division, resulting in unequal distribution of genetic material to daughter cells
Usage: biology/genetics term; occurs during meiosis or mitosis
Examples
- Nondisjunction during meiosis can produce gametes with an abnormal number of chromosomes.
- Down syndrome often results from nondisjunction of chromosome 21 during egg or sperm formation.
- The researcher studied nondisjunction events to understand chromosomal abnormalities in cancer cells.
- Nondisjunction in mitosis can lead to aneuploidy in somatic cells.
- Maternal age is a known risk factor for nondisjunction in human reproduction.