Chromosomes & mtDNA
Information about specific Chromosomes
Humans usually have 22 numbered pairs of autosomes plus a sex pair (XX or XY); a separate small mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) is inherited from the mother. Articles here summarize public reference information on each chromosome and on mtDNA, including how large-scale or small-scale changes can relate to health when that is known from the literature.
Chromosome articles: background
A chromosome article is a map of that stretch of the genome: what it generally contains, how variants are discussed in genetics, and—when we have them—links to conditions that are often discussed alongside that chromosome. This is educational context, not a cytogenetic or sequencing report and not a substitute for a laboratory or clinical interpretation.
Navigating this catalog
- Tiles labeled 1–22, X, and Y open overviews for that chromosome; open any tile to read the full article and related conditions when listed.
- If you already have a condition or gene name (for example from a specialist), the genetic conditions and genes indexes may be a faster entry point; you can return here to see where that gene sits on a chromosome.
- Terminology and risk figures in genetics change as databases are updated—use articles here alongside your care team, not in place of them.