DNA Sequence Lecture

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to DNA structure, mutations, and evolutionary implications based on lecture notes.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, a double-stranded molecule that stores genetic information.

Nucleotide

The basic building block of DNA, consisting of a phosphate group, a deoxyribose sugar, and a nitrogenous base.

Complementary Base Pairing Rules

Adenine (A) pairs with Thymine (T) and Guanine (G) pairs with Cytosine (C) in DNA.

Hydrogen Bonds

Weak bonds that hold complementary base pairs together; A–T pairs form 2 hydrogen bonds, G–C pairs form 3 hydrogen bonds.

Mutation

A permanent change in the DNA base sequence, which can create genetic variation.

Types of Mutation

Substitution (one base replaced), Insertion (extra base added), and Deletion (one base removed).

Percentage Similarity

A measure to compare DNA sequences between species, calculated as the number of identical bases over the total number of bases.

Nuclear DNA (nDNA)

DNA found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, inherited from both parents, containing most genes controlling traits.

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)

Small circular DNA inherited from the mother, does not recombine, and mutates quickly.

Conclusions from DNA Similarity

Similar DNA sequences indicate closely related species; greater differences suggest more distant relationships.