Chromosomes and Genetics Overview

These flashcards focus on key concepts related to chromosomes, genetics, and their processes.

Ploidy

The number of sets of chromosomes in a cell.

Meiosis

The process that reduces chromosome sets from diploid to haploid.

Diploid

Having two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Gametes

Reproductive cells that are haploid, containing one set of chromosomes.

Fertilization

The process that restores the diploid state by combining sperm and egg.

Recombination

The process that occurs between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Ribosomes

Cellular organelles that are essential for protein synthesis, found in all living cells.

Genome

An organism's complete set of DNA.

Chromosome

A packaged structure of DNA that contains genes.

Gene

A specific sequence of DNA that encodes a functional product.

Locus

The physical location of a gene on a chromosome.

Allele

Different versions of the same gene.

Trait

A specific feature or characteristic of an organism.

Junk DNA

Non-coding DNA that regulates gene expression.

Introns

Non-coding regions within genes.

Transcription

The process of copying DNA into messenger RNA (mRNA).

Translation

The process where ribosomes read mRNA sequences to synthesize proteins.

Promoter

The DNA sequence that attracts RNA Polymerase to initiate transcription.

Repressor

A protein that blocks RNA Polymerase from transcribing genes.

Codons

Three-letter sequences on mRNA that correspond to specific amino acids.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can affect how proteins are synthesized.

Chromosomal Aberration

A change in the structure or number of chromosomes.

Operon

A group of genes controlled together that can be transcribed as a single mRNA.

Independent Assortment

The random distribution of alleles during gamete formation.

Selective Breeding

The intentional breeding of organisms to enhance desired traits.

Incomplete Dominance

A genetic scenario where the phenotype of a heterozygote is a blend of the two parent traits.

Codominance

A genetic scenario where both traits are expressed without blending.