Genes, Chromosomes, and Proteins

Nucleus

The cell structure where DNA is stored and protected. It is the control center of the cell.

Chromosome

A long, threadlike structure made of DNA and proteins that carries genetic information. Found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells.

Gene

A segment of DNA that codes for a specific protein. It is the basic unit of heredity.

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

The molecule that contains genetic instructions for the development and functioning of living organisms. It has a double-helix shape.

Protein

Large molecules made up of amino acids that perform various functions in the body, such as enzymes, hormones, and structural components.

Trait

A characteristic or feature of an organism that is determined by genes, such as eye color or height.

Genome

The complete set of genetic material in an organism, consisting of all its genes and chromosomes.

Inheritance

The process by which traits are passed from parents to offspring through genes.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to genetic variation or disease.

Base Pairs (A, T, G, C)

The chemical bases that form the steps of the DNA ladder: Adenine (A) pairs with Thymine (T), and Guanine (G) pairs with Cytosine (C

DNA Structure

DNA consists of two strands that coil around each other to form a double helix. The strands are made of a backbone of sugar (deoxyribose) and phosphate groups, with nitrogenous bases (A, T, G, C) attached to the sugar.

Genes and Proteins

Genes provide instructions for building proteins. The sequence of bases in a gene determines the sequence of amino acids in a protein, which then folds into a functional shape.

Chromosomes and Genes

Chromosomes are structures that contain many genes. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, with one set inherited from each parent.

Mutation

can change the sequence of DNA, leading to new traits or diseases. Not all mutations are harmful, as some can be beneficial or neutral.

Inheritance

Traits are inherited through the transmission of genes from parents to offspring. This occurs during reproduction, when gametes (sperm and egg cells) combine to form a new organism.