DNA Structure and Function

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to DNA structure, function, and experiments.

DNA

A molecule that regulates cell activity by controlling protein synthesis.

Gene

Located in the nitrogen base of a nucleotide; genes control protein synthesis.

Frederick Griffith

Discovered the process of transformation in bacteria.

Oswald Avery

Scientist who proved that DNA caused transformation in bacteria.

Hershey and Chase Experiment

Discovered that DNA is the genetic material, the body’s blueprint.

Double Helix

The structure of DNA discovered by James Watson and Francis Crick.

Histones

Proteins around which DNA coils to form chromosomes.

Nucleosomes

Bead-like formations that are created when DNA coils around histones.

Chromatin

The structure formed by nucleosomes gathering and thickening.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A technique that allows for a gene or piece of DNA to be copied rapidly.

Antiparallel

The arrangement of the two DNA strands which run in opposite directions.