The Y-chromosome is one of the two sex chromosomes found in humans and many other animals. In humans, biological males typically have one Y-chromosome and one X-chromosome (XY), while biological females have two X-chromosomes (XX). The Y-chromosome carries genes that are important for male development. One of its key roles is to trigger the formation of testes in the embryo, which leads to the development of male characteristics. Studying the Y-chromosome helps us understand genetics and how certain traits are inherited.
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