The Molecular Basis of Inheritance

These flashcards cover key concepts related to DNA replication, structure, and functions within the molecular basis of inheritance.

DNA replication

The process by which DNA makes a copy of itself prior to cell division, allowing genetic information to be transmitted to daughter cells.

Origin of replication

Specific sites on the DNA molecule where replication begins, forming a replication bubble.

Replication fork

Y-shaped region where new DNA strands are elongating during DNA replication.

Chargaff's rules

The observation that in any species the amount of adenine (A) equals thymine (T) and the amount of guanine (G) equals cytosine (C) in DNA.

Transformation

A change in genotype and phenotype due to assimilation of foreign DNA, as demonstrated in Griffith's experiments.

Leading strand

The DNA strand that is synthesized continuously during replication in the direction of the replication fork.

Lagging strand

The DNA strand that is synthesized in short segments, called Okazaki fragments, away from the replication fork.

DNA polymerase

Enzymes that catalyze the synthesis of new DNA strands at the replication fork.

Telomeres

Special nucleotide sequences at the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes that protect genes from erosion during DNA replication.

Nucleosome

The fundamental unit of chromatin, consisting of DNA wrapped around a core of histone proteins.