Genetics Review

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from genetics based on lecture notes.

Gregor Mendel

Known as the Father of Genetics; conducted experiments on pea plants to study inheritance.

Mendelian Genetics

The principles of inheritance first formulated by Gregor Mendel based on his experiments with pea plants.

Garden Pea (Pisum sativum)

The species Mendel used for his genetic experiments due to its easy cross-breeding and observation of traits.

Alleles

Different forms of a gene that can exist at a specific locus.

Homozygous

Having two identical alleles for a specific gene (e.g., PP or pp).

Heterozygous

Having two different alleles for a specific gene (e.g., Pp).

Phenotype

The physical expression or characteristics of a trait.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an organism represented by letters (e.g., PP, Pp, pp).

Punnett Square

A diagram used to predict an outcome of a genetic cross by showing the combinations of alleles.

Complete dominance

A form of dominance where the phenotype of the heterozygote is indistinguishable from that of the homozygous dominant.

Incomplete dominance

A genetic situation in which one allele does not completely dominate another, resulting in a blending of traits (e.g., pink flowers from red and white parents).

Co-dominance

A genetic scenario where both alleles in the genotype are fully expressed in the phenotype (e.g., AB blood type).

Polygenic traits

Traits controlled by multiple genes, leading to continuous variation in phenotypes (e.g., height).

Sex-linked inheritance

Traits that are linked to genes located on the sex chromosomes, often affecting one sex more than the other.

Pedigree Chart

A diagram that shows the occurrence and appearance of phenotypes of a particular gene or organism and its ancestors.

Universal Donor

Type O blood, which can be given to any blood type without causing an immune response.

Universal Recipient

Type AB blood, which can receive blood from any type without causing an immune response.