Epigenetics, Extranuclear Inheritance, and Linkage

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to epigenetics, extranuclear inheritance, and gene linkage from the lecture notes.

Epigenetics

The study of changes in gene expression that are not caused by changes in the DNA sequence.

Genomic Imprinting

A process where segments of DNA are marked and only one allele is expressed depending on the parent of origin.

DNA Methylation

A biochemical process involving the addition of methyl groups to DNA, often leading to gene silencing.

X-Chromosome Inactivation

A process in female mammals where one of the X chromosomes is randomly inactivated during early embryonic development.

Barr Body

The highly condensed and inactivated X chromosome found in female somatic cells.

Maternal Inheritance

Inheritance pattern where genes are passed exclusively through the maternal line, as seen in mitochondria and chloroplasts.

Extranuclear Inheritance

Inheritance of traits determined by genes located outside the nucleus, such as in mitochondria or chloroplasts.

Linkage

The tendency of genes located close together on the same chromosome to be inherited together.

Recombination

The process by which genetic material is physically mixed during meiosis, resulting in new allele combinations.

Epimutation

A heritable change in gene expression that does not involve a modification of the DNA sequence.