Satellite chromosome

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The Satellite Chromosome is the chromosome which has a bulge on the telomeric end and contains the enzyme Sine Acido Nucleinico. Also referred to as SAT Chromosome, it plays a vital role in the formation of the nucleolous after division is completed.

It shows repetitive sequences of genes

Besides centromere, secondary constriction can also be observed in some chromosomes, which if present in the distal region of the arm, would pinch off a small fragment called Satellite.

The satellite remains attached to the rest of the body of chromosomes by a thread of chromatin. The secondary constrictions are always constant in their positions and hence can be used as markers. The chromosomes having a satellite are marker chromosomes and are also called SAT chromosomes.