Gene Structure and Chromosomes

Flashcards summarizing key terms and concepts related to gene structure and chromosomes from the lecture.

Genetics

The study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics.

Heredity

A biological process where a parent passes certain genes onto their children.

Variation

A genetic change that causes differing characteristics between organisms in a certain species.

Gene

A locus of DNA made up of nucleotides and is the molecular unit of heredity.

Mendelian inheritance

The patterns of inheritance described by Gregor Mendel, particularly in pea plants.

Chromosome

A structure made of DNA and proteins that contains genetic information.

Haploid

A cell that contains one set of chromosomes (1n), as seen in human sperm and eggs.

Karyotyping

A laboratory procedure that visualizes an individual's chromosomes to identify abnormalities.

Telomere

The repetitive nucleotide sequences at the ends of chromosomes that protect them from deterioration.

Centromere

The region of a chromosome where the two sister chromatids are joined.

Chromatin

The complex of DNA and proteins (such as histones) that form chromosomes.

Telomerase

An enzyme that adds telomere sequences to the ends of chromosomes, maintaining their length.

Diploid

The total chromosome number in somatic cells, typically represented as 2n.

Acrocentric chromosome

A chromosome with the centromere located towards one end, resulting in one long and one very short arm.

Sub-metacentric chromosome

A chromosome where the centromere is offset from the middle, creating unequal arm lengths.

Mitosis

The process of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells.

Down syndrome

A genetic disorder caused by trisomy 21, characterized by distinct physical traits and cognitive challenges.

CFTR gene

A gene located on the long arm of chromosome 7 responsible for cystic fibrosis.

Karyotype

A visual representation of an individual's chromosomes, organized by size and number.