Chapter 21:DNA, Genes, and Biotechnology

These flashcards cover key concepts related to DNA, genes, and biotechnology, focusing on terminology and definitions vital for understanding molecular biology.

Central Dogma of Molecular Biology

The flow of information from DNA to RNA to protein.

Nucleotide

The building blocks of nucleic acids, made of a sugar molecule, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

RNA

Ribonucleic acid, containing ribose sugar, and the nitrogenous bases adenine, guanine, cytosine, and uracil.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, containing deoxyribose sugar, and the nitrogenous bases adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine.

Double Helix

The structure formed by two strands of DNA wound around each other.

Watson and Crick

Scientists who discovered the double helix structure of DNA.

Base Pairing

The formation of pairs between nitrogenous bases, specifically A-T and G-C.

Gene

A localized region of DNA that contains the information for making proteins or RNA.

Chromosomes

Structures formed from DNA molecules when cells are dividing.

DNA Replication

The process of copying DNA prior to cell division.

Mutation

A change in the nucleotide sequence of a gene.

Transcription

The process of synthesizing RNA from a DNA template.

mRNA

Messenger RNA, which carries genetic information from the DNA to the ribosome for protein synthesis.

tRNA

Transfer RNA, which decodes the mRNA and transfers the correct amino acids during translation.

rRNA

Ribosomal RNA, a component of ribosomes that helps in protein synthesis.

Peptide Bond

A covalent bond formed between the carboxyl group of one amino acid and the amino group of another.

Polypeptide

A chain of amino acids that makes up proteins.

Stop Codon

A codon that signals the termination of protein synthesis; examples include UAA, UAG, and UGA.

RNA Processing

Modifications made to pre-mRNA, including the removal of introns and the addition of a 5' cap and a poly-A tail.

Thymine dimer

A type of DNA damage caused by UV light, linking two adjacent thymine bases.

Gene Regulation

The mechanisms that control the expression of genes, determining whether and when a gene is activated.