What does karyotype mean?
A karyotype is the characteristic chromosome complement of a cell or organism, described according to the number, size, and arrangement of its chromosomes. It is commonly represented as a standardized visual display, allowing researchers to identify chromosomal conditions involving extra or missing chromosomes, as well as larger structural changes. In medicine, karyotyping has historically been important in prenatal diagnosis, cancer genetics, and the assessment of developmental disorders. Although the word sounds technical, it names a practical idea: a systematic picture of how an organism's chromosomes are organized. The term is also used in evolutionary biology and research, where comparisons between species can reveal relationships and evolutionary changes. In current molecular genetics, DNA sequencing and genomic analysis often provide additional or more detailed information, but karyotype analysis remains an important method for examining chromosome-level structure.
nounThe characteristic number, size, and arrangement of the chromosomes in an individual's cell or organism. A karyotype is used to identify abnormalities such as extra, missing, or structurally altered chromosomes.
- The characteristic number, size, and arrangement of chromosomes in an individual's cell or organism.
"The laboratory analyzed the patient's karyotype to determine whether a chromosomal abnormality was present."
"Researchers compared the child's karyotype with those of her parents."
"An abnormal karyotype was detected during the prenatal assessment."
The plural is karyotypes.
"The study compared karyotypes from several affected families."
A karyotype turns the complex arrangement of chromosomes into a visual map, making hidden genetic abnormalities visible.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does karyotype come from?
The word combines Greek karyon, meaning “kernel” or “nucleus,” with the combining form -type, derived from Greek typos, meaning “form,” “pattern,” or “model.” In biology, the related prefix karyo- refers to the nucleus of a cell. The term developed during the study of chromosome organization and was used for the characteristic arrangement and number of chromosomes in a cell.
How karyotype is actually used
Primarily a technical term in genetics, medicine, and cytogenetics. It is usually used with cell, human, tumor, or another biological designation to specify the type of chromosome complement under discussion.
Easily confused with karyotype
A karyotype is the resulting representation or description of a cell's chromosome complement, whereas karyotyping is the laboratory procedure used to produce it.