Specialized organs, particularly those involved in reproduction, contain germ cells with half the number of chromosomes and DNA content to maintain a balance and prevent the accumulation of excessive genetic material in each generation.
Why do specialized organs contain cells with half the number of chromosomes and DNA content?
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Specialized organs contain cells with half the number of chromosomes and DNA content to facilitate sexual reproduction. This reduction is achieved through the process of meiosis. During meiosis, cells undergo two sequential divisions, resulting in four non-identical haploid cells (gametes) with half the chromosome number. When these gametes fuse during fertilization, the diploid chromosome number is restored in the zygote. This mechanism ensures genetic diversity in offspring and maintains the stable chromosome number across generations. The halving of chromosomes in gametes allows for the combination of genetic material from two parents, promoting variability in the population.