Sister Chromatids vs. Non-Sister Chromatids: What's the Difference?

Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 30, 2023

Sister chromatids are identical copies of a single chromosome held together at the centromere. Non-sister chromatids belong to different homologous chromosomes and aren't identical.

Key Differences

Sister chromatids refer to two identical copies of the same chromosome formed as a result of DNA replication. They are conjoined at a region known as the centromere and are vital during cell division. On the other hand, non-sister chromatids pertain to the chromatids from two different members of a pair of homologous chromosomes. They are not identical and come into close contact during meiosis, a process crucial for genetic variation.

Oct 30, 2023

Sister chromatids become particularly important during mitosis, the process of cell division in somatic cells. When the cell divides, these chromatids are separated to ensure that each daughter cell gets an identical set of chromosomes. Non-sister chromatids, contrastingly, do not separate in a similar fashion. Instead, they undergo genetic recombination during meiosis, which results in the exchange of genetic material.

Oct 30, 2023

Every chromosome, post-DNA replication, consists of two sister chromatids. They are essentially duplicates of each other, containing the same genetic information. Non-sister chromatids, however, come from two distinct but homologous chromosomes. While they carry genes for the same traits, the specific versions or alleles of those genes might differ.

Oct 30, 2023

In the context of genetic diversity, sister chromatids don't play a direct role since they are identical. Non-sister chromatids, in contrast, are central to the process of creating diversity in offspring. The crossing-over between non-sister chromatids during meiosis is what gives rise to genetic variation within species.

Oct 30, 2023

Comparison Chart

Definition

Identical copies of a single chromosome.

Chromatids from different homologous chromosomes.

Oct 30, 2023

ADVERTISEMENT

Origin

Result from DNA replication.

Come from separate chromosomes of a homologous pair.

Oct 30, 2023

Role in Genetic Diversity

Do not contribute directly.

Responsible through crossing-over in meiosis.

Oct 30, 2023

Genetic Content

Identical.

Different, but related.

Oct 30, 2023

Separation during Cell Division

Separate during mitosis.

Do not separate similarly; undergo recombination in meiosis.

Oct 30, 2023

Sister Chromatids and Non-Sister Chromatids Definitions

Sister Chromatids

Sister chromatids contain identical genetic information.

Any mutation in a gene will be reflected in both sister chromatids.

Oct 30, 2023

ADVERTISEMENT

Non-Sister Chromatids

Non-sister chromatids belong to different homologous chromosomes.

During meiosis, non-sister chromatids from homologous chromosomes can exchange genetic material.

Oct 30, 2023

Sister Chromatids

Sister chromatids are products of DNA replication.

Before a cell divides, its DNA replicates, forming sister chromatids for each chromosome.

Oct 30, 2023

Non-Sister Chromatids

Non-sister chromatids can undergo crossing-over during meiosis.

Genetic variation in offspring can be attributed to exchanges between non-sister chromatids.

Oct 30, 2023

Sister Chromatids

Sister chromatids are conjoined at the centromere.

The centromere holds the sister chromatids together until cell division.

Oct 30, 2023

Non-Sister Chromatids

Non-sister chromatids represent genetic variants within homologous chromosomes.

A trait determined by genes on non-sister chromatids can manifest differently based on the specific allele present.

Oct 30, 2023

ADVERTISEMENT

Sister Chromatids

Sister chromatids separate during mitosis.

During anaphase, sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell.

Oct 30, 2023

Non-Sister Chromatids

Non-sister chromatids are not identical, though related.

Non-sister chromatids may have different alleles for the same gene.

Oct 30, 2023

Sister Chromatids

Sister chromatids are duplicated copies of a chromosome.

After DNA replication, a chromosome consists of two sister chromatids.

Oct 30, 2023

Non-Sister Chromatids

Non-sister chromatids play a role in genetic recombination.

Crossing-over between non-sister chromatids introduces genetic diversity.

Oct 30, 2023

FAQs

Why are non-sister chromatids important for genetic diversity?

Non-sister chromatids undergo genetic recombination during meiosis, leading to genetic variation.

Oct 30, 2023

When do sister chromatids separate?

Sister chromatids separate during mitosis, ensuring each daughter cell gets an identical set of chromosomes.

Oct 30, 2023

Can non-sister chromatids exchange genetic material?

Yes, non-sister chromatids can exchange genetic material through a process called crossing-over during meiosis.

Oct 30, 2023

Do non-sister chromatids play a role in mitosis?

No, non-sister chromatids' main role is in meiosis, especially during genetic recombination.

Oct 30, 2023

When do non-sister chromatids come into close contact?

Non-sister chromatids come into close contact during the prophase I of meiosis.

Oct 30, 2023

Are the genes on sister chromatids always the same?

Yes, the genes on sister chromatids are always identical.

Oct 30, 2023

Are sister chromatids present in non-dividing cells?

Sister chromatids are formed following DNA replication and before cell division, so they're not present in non-dividing cells.

Oct 30, 2023

How do non-sister chromatids differ from sister chromatids?

Non-sister chromatids belong to different homologous chromosomes and aren't identical, unlike sister chromatids.

Oct 30, 2023

Are sister chromatids identical in their genetic information?

Yes, sister chromatids have identical genetic information.

Oct 30, 2023

Do sister chromatids contribute to genetic diversity?

Directly, no. Sister chromatids are identical and don't introduce genetic variation.

Oct 30, 2023

How do non-sister chromatids affect inheritance patterns?

Through crossing-over, non-sister chromatids can introduce new genetic combinations that affect inheritance patterns.

Oct 30, 2023

What are sister chromatids?

Sister chromatids are identical copies of a single chromosome, conjoined at the centromere.

Oct 30, 2023

Do non-sister chromatids always have different alleles?

Not always, but non-sister chromatids can carry different alleles for the same gene.

Oct 30, 2023

Where are sister chromatids held together?

Sister chromatids are held together at the centromere.

Oct 30, 2023

Can non-sister chromatids be from the same chromosome?

No, non-sister chromatids come from different members of a pair of homologous chromosomes.

Oct 30, 2023

How are sister chromatids formed?

Sister chromatids are formed as a result of DNA replication.

Oct 30, 2023

In which phase of cell division are sister chromatids separated?

Sister chromatids are separated during the anaphase of mitosis.

Oct 30, 2023

How do non-sister chromatids contribute to genetic diversity in offspring?

Non-sister chromatids undergo recombination during meiosis, resulting in offspring with varied genetic combinations.

Oct 30, 2023

Do sister chromatids play a role in meiosis?

Yes, sister chromatids play a role, especially when they separate during meiosis II.

Oct 30, 2023

How do non-sister chromatids differ in terms of genetic content?

Non-sister chromatids carry genes for the same traits, but specific alleles might differ.

Oct 30, 2023

Accounting Concept vs. Accounting Convention

Intensive Farming vs. Extensive Farming

About Author

Written by

Sumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.

Edited by

Huma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.