Gene Expression

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology related to gene expression, the processes of transcription and translation, the structure and function of proteins, and the implications of genetic modification.

What determines the shape of a protein molecule and why is its shape important?

The sequence of amino acids in a protein determines its shape, which is crucial for its function.

What are the steps of gene expression and where in the cell do they occur?

The steps are transcription (in the nucleus) and translation (on ribosomes in the cytoplasm).

What is gene expression?

The process of converting information from the coding sequence of a gene into a protein.

What are genes?

Genes are segments of DNA found on chromosomes that carry information for making proteins.

What is the difference between DNA and RNA?

DNA contains thymine and is double-stranded, while RNA contains uracil and is single-stranded.

What is a codon?

A codon is a sequence of three nucleotides in mRNA that codes for a specific amino acid.

What role does RNA polymerase play in transcription?

RNA polymerase copies a strand of DNA into a complementary strand of mRNA.

What is translation?

The process that occurs on ribosomes, where mRNA is used to synthesize proteins.

What is a mutation?

A change in the nucleotide sequence of DNA that can alter protein function.

How do mutations affect proteins?

Mutations can change the amino acid sequence, potentially altering the protein's function.

What is protein folding and why is it important?

Protein folding is the process by which a protein achieves its functional shape, which is essential for its activity.

How do tRNA molecules function in translation?

tRNA molecules match an amino acid to its corresponding mRNA codon during protein synthesis.

What are some pros and cons of genetically modified organisms (GMOs)?

Pros include increased yield and pest resistance; cons include potential ecological impacts and health concerns.

What is the central dogma of molecular biology?

The central dogma describes the flow of genetic information from DNA to RNA to protein.

What is the primary product of transcription?

Messenger RNA (mRNA)

What is the function of ribosomes during translation?

Ribosomes are cellular organelles that read the mRNA sequence and facilitate the synthesis of proteins by linking amino acids together.

What is the significance of the "start codon" and "stop codons" in translation?

The start codon (AUG) initiates protein synthesis, while stop codons (UAA, UAG, UGA) signal its termination.

What is an anticodon and where is it found?

An anticodon is a three-nucleotide sequence on a tRNA molecule that base-pairs with a complementary codon on an mRNA molecule.

What type of bond is formed between amino acids during translation to create a protein?

Peptide bonds are formed between amino acids.

what is transcription

Transcription is the process by which the genetic information in DNA is copied into messenger RNA (mRNA), which then directs the synthesis of proteins.