Male human chromosome set. Computer artwork of the complete set (karyotype) of healthy male human chromosomes. Humans have 46 chromosomes in most cells, consisting of 23 pairs made up of one from each parent. Chromosomes contain deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which encodes genetic information (in sections called genes) that is passed from parents to their offspring. DNA is stored in the nuclei of cells. The final XY chromosome pair (lower centre, X is the larger chromosome), shows that the person is male. Females have an XX chromosome pair.