X-chromosome

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X-chromosome One of the two kinds of sex-determining chromosome; the other is the Y-chromosome. In many organisms, including humans, females carry two X-chromosomes in their diploid cell nuclei, while males carry one X- and one Y-chromosome. Non-sexual characteristics are also carried on the X-chromosome: for example, the genes for one form of colour blindness and for haemophilia. See also genetics; heredity

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