What is the Difference Between Inversion and Translocation?

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Inversion and translocation are two types of chromosomal rearrangements that can lead to abnormalities. Here are the main differences between them:

  • Inversion: This occurs when a segment of a chromosome is broken at two locations and then flipped 180 degrees and rejoined. It involves only one chromosome and is usually not associated with adverse effects unless there is a missing or wrong gene during the inversion process. Inversions can be either pericentric, involving the centromere, or paracentric, occurring outside of the centromere.
  • Translocation: This occurs when two fragments of two non-homologous chromosomes trade places. Translocations can lead to diseases such as Down's syndrome, cancer, and infertility. There are three main types of translocations: reciprocal, nonreciprocal, and Robertsonian. In reciprocal translocations, there is no gain or loss of genetic information, while in nonreciprocal translocations, one-way translocation of a segment from one non-homologous chromosome occurs, and in Robertsonian translocations, translocation happens between two acrocentric chromosomes at or near the point of the centromere.

In summary, inversion is a chromosomal rearrangement within a single chromosome, while translocation involves the exchange of information between two non-homologous chromosomes. Inversion typically does not cause adverse effects, whereas translocation can lead to various diseases and abnormalities.

Comparative Table: Inversion vs Translocation

Here is a table comparing inversion and translocation:

Feature Inversion Translocation
Definition Inversion is a chromosomal rearrangement where a fragment of a chromosome is reversed from end to end. Translocation is a chromosomal rearrangement involving the exchange of information between two non-homologous chromosomes.
Number of Chromosomes Involved Inversion involves only one chromosome. Translocation involves two chromosomes.
Location of Rejoining Inversion occurs in the same location within the same chromosome. Translocation changes the location of the DNA fragment between chromosomes.
Harmful Effects Inversion does not cause adverse effects unless there is a missing or wrong gene during inversion. Translocation can cause diseases like Down's syndrome, cancer, and infertility.
Types Inversion can be pericentric (includes the centromere; the break occurs in the arms) or paracentric (does not involve the centromere). Translocation can be reciprocal (involving equal exchange of segments), nonreciprocal (involving unequal exchange of segments), or Robertsonian (involving translocation between two acrocentric chromosomes, at or near the point of centromere).