How is DNA Inherited from Each Parent?

DNA is inherited from each parent via a process called sexual reproduction, where genetic material from both parents combines to form offspring. Here’s how DNA inheritance occurs:

Gamete Formation

Each parent produces specialized reproductive cells called gametes. In males, these are sperm cells, and in females, they are egg cells (ova). Gametes are haploid, meaning they contain half the number of chromosomes (23 in humans) compared to somatic cells.

Meiosis

Before gametes are formed, a specialized type of cell division called meiosis occurs in the gonads (testes in males, ovaries in females). During meiosis, the diploid (2n) parent cell undergoes two rounds of division, resulting in four haploid (n) daughter cells with unique genetic combinations.

Fertilization

During sexual intercourse, a sperm cell from the father fertilizes an egg cell from the mother, forming a zygote. This process combines genetic material from both parents, each contributing half of the zygote’s chromosomes.

Combining Genetic Material

The zygote now contains a complete set of chromosomes, with half inherited from the father and half from the mother. These chromosomes carry genes that determine various traits and characteristics of the offspring.

Gene Expression

After fertilization, the zygote undergoes mitotic cell divisions, eventually forming a multicellular embryo. During development, genes inherited from both parents are expressed, influencing the phenotype (observable traits) of the offspring.

Through this process of sexual reproduction, offspring inherit a unique combination of genetic material from both parents, contributing to genetic diversity within populations.