BI101 – Genetics and DNA Biology

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the lecture on genetics and DNA biology.

Chromosome

Structures made of DNA that carry genetic information, with humans having 46 chromosomes.

DNA Structure

DNA consists of helical strands made of sugar and phosphates, with nitrogen bases A-T and G-C pairing.

Semi-conservative replication

Process of DNA replication where each daughter strand contains one original and one new strand.

mRNA

Messenger RNA that conveys genetic information from DNA to a ribosome, where proteins are synthesized.

Meiosis

A form of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing gametes for sexual reproduction.

Homozygous

An individual having two identical alleles for a specific trait, either dominant or recessive.

Heterozygous

An individual having two different alleles for a specific trait, one normal and one trait.

Pedigree

A diagram showing the lineage or descent of an individual, often used to study inheritance patterns.

Dominant trait

A genetic trait that is expressed in the phenotype even when only one copy is present.

Recessive trait

A genetic trait that is only expressed in the phenotype when two copies are present.

Allele

A variant form of a gene, which can determine distinctive traits in organisms.

Genotype

The genetic constitution of an individual, represented by the alleles they carry.

Phenotype

The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism, determined by its genotype.

Natural Selection

The process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Genetic Variation

Differences in alleles among individuals in a population, crucial for evolution.

Polygenic trait

A trait that is controlled by multiple genes, showcasing a range of phenotypes.

Incomplete dominance

A genetic situation where one allele does not completely dominate another, resulting in a blended phenotype.