Chapter 4.5-4.7

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to cellular metabolism, particularly focusing on DNA structure, function, and the processes of gene expression, transcription, and translation.

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

The genetic material that stores information on its sequence of nucleotides which instructs a cell on how to synthesize certain proteins.

Genome

The complete set of genetic instructions for an organism; all cells contain two copies of the genome (except sex cells).

Exome

The small portion (2%) of the genome that codes for proteins.

Gene Expression

The control of which proteins are produced in each cell type, in what amount, and when.

Nucleotide

The building blocks of DNA, consisting of a 5-carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

Complementary Base Pairing

The specific pairing of nitrogenous bases in DNA: Adenine with Thymine (A-T) and Cytosine with Guanine (C-G).

DNA Replication

The process of making an exact copy of a DNA molecule which occurs during interphase.

Transcription

The process of copying DNA information into an RNA sequence.

Translation

The process of converting the genetic code carried by mRNA into a sequence of amino acids that becomes a protein.

Chaperones

Molecules that help fold proteins into their unique shapes, allowing them to function properly.

Mutation

Changes in the DNA sequence due to errors in DNA replication, which can lead to different types of genetic variations.

Proteasomes

Spool-shaped structures that process misfolded proteins, either refolding them or destroying them.

Epigenetics

The field of biology studying modifications of gene expression that do not involve changes in the DNA sequence.

Codon

A sequence of 3 nucleotides in RNA that specifies an amino acid or a signal in the process of translation.

Ribonuclease

An enzyme that destroys mRNA in the cytoplasm, playing a role in regulating gene expression.