Haploid refers to having half the number of total chromosomes. For humans, the haploid chromosome number is 23, and the diploid number is 46. Sex cells, also known as germ cells, are called haploid. The combination of haploid chromosomes in the sperm and egg creates the diploid number 46. Normal somatic cells contain the diploid number 46. Cancerous cells, such as those in prostate cancer, will also contain the diploid number if they are well-differentiated. Cells that are poorly differentiated have differing chromosomal numbers and indicated more aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
|
