Microbial Genetics and Biotechnology

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts from Microbial Genetics and Biotechnology.

Gene

Segment of DNA that encodes a functional product, usually a protein

Genome

All of the genetic material in a cell

Genetics

Study of what genes are, how they carry information, how information is expressed, and how genes are replicated

Genomics

Molecular study of genomes

Chromosome

Structures that contain DNA and physically carry genetic information

Plasmid

Self-replicating, gene-containing, circular, double-stranded DNA

Transposon

Small segment of DNA that can move from one region of DNA molecule to another

Genotype

Genes of an organism

Phenotype

Expression of the genes

Horizontal Gene Transfer

Transfer of genes between cells of the same generation

Vertical Gene Transfer

Transfer of genetic information between generations of cells

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

A method used to make multiple copies of a specific DNA segment

Operon

Bacterial genes structured to serve a common goal, which contain a promoter, operator, and structural genes

Inducible Operon

An operon that is normally off but can be turned on when needed

Repressible Operon

An operon that is normally on but can be turned off when not needed

Mutation

Inheritable change in the genetic material which may be neutral, beneficial, or harmful

Mutagen

Agent (physical or chemical) that causes mutations

Transformation

Transfer of genes from one bacteria to another as 'naked' DNA in solution

Conjugation

Transfer of genes from one bacteria to another through cell-to-cell contact

Transduction

Transfer of genes via a viral vehicle (bacterial phage) from donor to recipient cell

Repressor

Regulatory protein that blocks the ability of RNA polymerase to initiate transcription

Inducer

Substance that induces gene transcription

Anticodon

A sequence of three nucleotides that is complementary to a codon in mRNA

R factor

Plasmids that encode antibiotic resistance