Chapter 13-The Chromosomal Basis of Inheritance and Human Genetics

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from Chapter 13 of Biology, focusing on inheritance and genetics.

Chromosomal Theory of Inheritance

The theory stating that genes are located on chromosomes and are inherited through the processes of meiosis and fertilization.

Sex Linkage

The association of traits with specific sex chromosomes, often resulting in traits that are more commonly expressed in one sex over the other.

Drosophila melanogaster

The scientific name for the common fruit fly, often used as a model organism in genetic studies.

Autosome

Any chromosome that is not a sex chromosome.

Dosage Compensation

The mechanism that ensures equal expression of genes from sex chromosomes despite differences in chromosome number between sexes.

X-linked Recessive Alleles

Alleles that are located on the X chromosome and may produce a recessive phenotype when present in a male or a female with a corresponding allele.

Amniocentesis

A prenatal procedure in which a small amount of amniotic fluid is sampled to diagnose genetic disorders.

Nondisjunction

The failure of homologous chromosomes or sister chromatids to separate properly during meiosis or mitosis, leading to aneuploidy.

Sickle Cell Anemia

A genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the hemoglobin gene, leading to abnormal blood cells that can cause various health issues.

Genetic Mapping

The process of determining the location of genes on a chromosome and the distances between them based on recombination frequency.