Trisomy vs. Triploidy — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 21, 2023
Trisomy refers to an extra chromosome in a pair, while triploidy means having three complete sets of chromosomes.
Difference Between Trisomy and Triploidy
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Trisomy and triploidy are both genetic conditions related to chromosomes. In trisomy, one specific chromosome is present in three copies instead of the usual two. In contrast, triploidy means an organism has three complete sets of chromosomes, making for a total of 69 chromosomes.
Conditions like Down syndrome result from trisomy, where the 21st chromosome is present in three copies. On the other hand, triploidy, with its three complete sets of chromosomes, often leads to miscarriage or severe developmental issues in humans.
While trisomy affects a specific chromosome pair, triploidy affects the entire chromosomal set. In trisomy, the cell contains 47 chromosomes, just one over the standard 46. However, triploidy, due to its extensive chromosomal duplication, comprises a total of 69 chromosomes.
Trisomy's manifestation can vary depending on which chromosome has the extra copy. Notably, some trisomies can be compatible with life, such as trisomy 21 (Down syndrome). Conversely, triploidy in humans is generally not compatible with life, and affected pregnancies usually end in miscarriage.
Both trisomy and triploidy have significant implications for human health and development. While they share the concept of chromosomal abnormalities, their root causes, manifestation, and outcomes can differ considerably.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Extra copy of one chromosome
Three complete sets of chromosomes
Number of Chromosomes
47
69
Compatibility with Life
Some types can be (e.g., Trisomy 21)
Generally not in humans
Common Examples
Down syndrome (Trisomy 21)
Miscarriages and severe developmental issues
Scope
Affects a specific chromosome pair
Affects the entire chromosomal set
Compare with Definitions
Trisomy
Genetic anomaly with 47 chromosomes
The genetic test revealed a trisomy in her cells.
Triploidy
Having three full sets of chromosomes
The fetus was identified as having triploidy.
Trisomy
Presence of an additional chromosome
The baby was diagnosed with trisomy of the 21st chromosome.
Triploidy
Typically non-viable genetic condition in humans
Most pregnancies with triploidy result in miscarriage.
Trisomy
Chromosomal condition causing developmental issues
Certain forms of trisomy can result in developmental challenges.
Triploidy
Result of fertilization anomalies
Triploidy can result from the fusion of two sperm with one egg.
Trisomy
Abnormal cell division causing extra chromosome
Trisomy results from errors in meiosis.
Triploidy
Chromosomal aberration encompassing all pairs
Triploidy affects all chromosome pairs, not just one.
Trisomy
Triple presence of a specific chromosome
Trisomy 18 is a severe genetic disorder.
Triploidy
Genetic condition with 69 chromosomes
Triploidy leads to a total of 69 chromosomes in cells.
Trisomy
A trisomy is a type of polysomy in which there are three instances of a particular chromosome, instead of the normal two. A trisomy is a type of aneuploidy (an abnormal number of chromosomes).
Triploidy
Having three times the haploid number of chromosomes in the cell nucleus
Triploid somatic cells.
Trisomy
The condition of having three copies of a given chromosome in each somatic cell rather than the normal number of two.
Triploidy
A triploid organism or cell.
Trisomy
(cytology) The presence of three copies, instead of the normal two, of a particular chromosome of an organism.
Triploidy
The state of being triploid, having three sets of chromosomes.
Trisomy
Chrosomal abnormality in which there is one more than the normal number of chromosomes in a cell
Triploidy
An instance of being triploid.
Common Curiosities
Is triploidy common in humans?
It's rare and typically results in miscarriage or severe issues.
How does triploidy differ from trisomy?
Triploidy means having three complete sets of chromosomes.
How does trisomy occur?
It results from errors in cell division, leading to an extra chromosome.
Can someone with trisomy lead a normal life?
It depends on the trisomy type; Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) individuals can lead fulfilling lives with support.
What causes triploidy?
Commonly from the fusion of two sperm with one egg or a diploid sperm or egg.
Are all trisomies harmful?
Not all, but most result in developmental challenges or miscarriage.
Can triploidy be detected prenatally?
Yes, through prenatal genetic testing and ultrasound.
What's the difference in chromosome count between trisomy and triploidy?
Trisomy has 47 chromosomes, while triploidy has 69.
What is trisomy?
Trisomy is the presence of an extra chromosome in a specific pair.
What happens in pregnancies with triploidy?
Most end in miscarriage or stillbirth.
Is trisomy hereditary?
While some risks increase with maternal age, most trisomies are not inherited.
Are there treatments for trisomy?
No cure, but treatments can manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Which is more common, trisomy or triploidy?
Trisomy is more common, with trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) being the most prevalent.
How do doctors diagnose trisomy?
Through prenatal tests like amniocentesis or after birth using genetic testing.
Can you prevent triploidy?
It's not preventable as it's a random genetic event.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
