Chromosomal Inheritance Lecture 24

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key vocabulary terms related to chromosomal inheritance, genetic variation, and related genetic concepts.

Sex Determination

The process by which the sex of an organism is decided, typically involving XX for females and XY for males.

Centromere

A constricted region of a chromosome that separates it into a short arm (p) and a long arm (q); it joins sister chromatids during cell division.

Genetic Variation

Diversity in gene frequencies within a population, caused by mutations, random mating, fertilization, crossing over, and independent assortment.

Dihybrid Cross

A genetic cross involving two traits, where the gametes for each trait are determined and visualized using a Punnett square.

Karyotype

A map of chromosomes arranged by size, showing homologous pairs and can differentiate between sex chromosomes.

Pleiotropy

The phenomenon where one gene influences multiple traits.

Epistasis

A genetic interaction where one gene affects the expression of another gene.

X-Inactivation

A process in females where one of the two X chromosomes is randomly inactivated, resulting in a Barr body.

Calico Cat

A cat with a coat that has patches of orange and black colors, typically female and heterozygous at the X-linked coat color locus.

Nondisjunction

The failure of chromosomes to separate correctly during cell division, which can lead to abnormalities such as Klinefelter's syndrome.

Point Mutation

A type of mutation where a single nucleotide is incorrect in the DNA sequence, potentially causing diseases.

Hemophilia

An X-linked genetic disorder where affected males require only one copy of the disease allele, while females need two copies.

Color Blindness

An X-linked recessive condition, where affected males only need one copy of the allele, while females require two.

Trisomy

A genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra chromosome, leading to conditions like Down syndrome.

Genetic Disorders

Hereditary conditions caused by abnormalities in genes or chromosomes, such as Sickle Cell Anemia and Cystic Fibrosis.

Inheritance

The transmission of genetic traits from parents to offspring, which can be influenced by factors like sex-linked inheritance.