Based on your understanding of the fundamental role of chromosomes, explain why having an extra copy of a chromosome can lead to significant developmental and health issues.

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Chromosomes are long, string-like structures composed of the genetic material known as deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA).

Chromosomes

The union of the sperm and egg cause genetic variation. In humans the sperm and egg, each contain 23 chromosomes. The fertilization process starts as there are 100 million sperm and one egg.

Fertilization

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a helix-shaped molecule composed of nucleotide base pairs. It serves as the genetic material that constitutes long strings known as chromosomes.

Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA)

Implications of Chromosomal Variations

An individual's genetic makeup is examined, and it is found that their somatic (non-sex) cells contain 47 chromosomes, including three copies of a specific autosome, instead of the usual 46. Based on the fundamental role of chromosomes as carriers of genetic information, what is the most direct and significant implication of this finding?

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