non Inheritance (epigenectics) L11

This set of flashcards includes key terms and definitions related to epigenetics, inheritance, and gene expression based on lecture notes.

Epigenetics

The study of mechanisms that lead to changes in gene expression without altering the DNA sequence.

Mendelian Inheritance

The pattern of inheritance that follows Mendel's laws, involving dominant and recessive alleles.

Phenotype

The observable characteristics or traits of an organism resulting from the interaction of its genotype with the environment.

Methylation

The addition of a methyl group to DNA that can suppress gene expression without changing the sequence.

DNA Promoter

A region of DNA that initiates transcription of a particular gene, influencing gene expression.

Histone Modification

The alteration of histone proteins that can affect how tightly DNA is wrapped and thus whether specific genes are accessible for transcription.

Genomic Imprinting

A phenomenon where genes are expressed in a parent-of-origin-specific manner, often involving methylation.

X Chromosome Inactivation

A process in female mammals where one of the two X chromosomes is randomly inactivated to balance gene dosage.

Royal Jelly

A nutrient-rich food produced by honeybees that influences the development of queen bees and worker bees through epigenetic mechanisms.

Agouti Gene

A gene associated with coat color in mice, where its expression can be influenced by environmental factors and diet.

RNA Interference (RNAi)

A biological process in which RNA molecules inhibit gene expression by causing the degradation of specific mRNA molecules.

Acetylation

The addition of an acetyl group to histones that typically increases gene expression by loosening DNA-histone interactions.

Recombination

The process during meiosis where genetic material is mixed between homologous chromosomes, resulting in new allele combinations.

Environmental Epigenetics

The study of how environmental factors can influence gene expression and epigenetic patterns.

Cytosine

One of the four main bases in DNA; methylation often occurs at cytosine residues.

Folate

A vitamin important in nutrition that can impact DNA methylation processes.

BPA (Bisphenol A)

A chemical found in plastics that can mimic estrogen and disrupt hormonal function, potentially leading to epigenetic changes.

Mitochondrial DNA

The genetic material found in mitochondria, which is inherited maternally and can influence inheritance patterns.

Transgenic Organisms

Organisms that have been genetically modified to contain a gene or genes from another organism.