Unit 2 Cram Sheet - MedInt, PLTW

Made for PLTW's medical intervention's course. Unit 2.

Chromosome

Tightly coiled DNA that contains genetic information.

DNA

The molecular basis of genetic information in organisms.

Autosomes

22 pairs of chromosomes that are not sex chromosomes.

Sex chromosomes

The pair of chromosomes that determine an individual's sex.

Fertilization

The moment of conception when genetic material from parents combines.

Genes

Coding sections of DNA that provide instructions for building proteins.

Proteins

Molecules responsible for traits and functioning in the body.

Genetic Testing

Testing to determine if a DNA-based problem is present in an individual.

Genetic Counselor

A trained professional who helps families understand genetic diagnoses.

Genetic Counseling

Guidance provided to families regarding genetic disorders and testing.

Hereditary Disorder

A genetic condition that is passed down from parents to children.

Single-gene Disorders

Conditions caused by mutations in one gene.

Sickle Cell Anemia

A single-gene disorder that affects red blood cells.

Cystic Fibrosis

A genetic disorder affecting the respiratory and digestive systems.

Multifactorial Disorders

Conditions caused by multiple genes and environmental factors.

Breast Cancer

A multifactorial disorder influenced by genetics and lifestyle choices.

Mitochondrial Disorders

Rare conditions caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA.

Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy

A mitochondrial disorder affecting vision.

Chromosomal Disorders

Conditions involving the incorrect number of chromosomes.

Down’s Syndrome

A chromosomal disorder also known as Trisomy-21.

Karyotype

A picture of chromosomes arranged by size and shape.

Carrier Screening

A test to determine if parents carry genes for certain diseases.

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)

Testing embryos for genetic conditions before implantation.

Fetal Screening

Testing performed on fetuses for genetic disorders.

Amniocentesis

A test that removes amniotic fluid to obtain fetal cells for testing.

Chorionic Villus Sampling

A test that removes cells from the placenta for genetic testing.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A laboratory technique used to amplify specific DNA sequences.

Denaturation

The first step in PCR where the DNA strands separate.

Annealing

The second step in PCR where primers bind to the DNA.

Extension

The final step in PCR where new DNA strands are synthesized.

Gel Electrophoresis

A method to separate DNA fragments based on size.

DNA Isolation

The process of separating DNA from other cellular components.

Amplification (PCR)

The replication of a specific DNA sequence through PCR.

Restriction Enzymes

Enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences.

Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs)

Tiny differences in DNA that can cause variations and diseases.

Gene Therapy

A treatment that aims to replace faulty genes with functional ones.

Vectors

Transportation methods used to deliver healthy genes to cells.

Common Vector types

Various viruses used in gene therapy to carry genetic material.

CRISPR

A genetic tool used to edit DNA sequences.

cas9

An enzyme that cuts DNA at specific locations, enabling gene editing.

Hereditary disorder

A condition passed down through genetic inheritance.

Mitochondria

Cellular structures responsible for energy production, affected in mitochondrial disorders.

In vitro fertilization

A process where egg and sperm are combined outside the body.

Ethical dilemmas

Moral challenges associated with genetic technologies and testing.

PCR Bead

A pellet containing Taq polymerase, primers, and nucleotides for PCR.

Centrifugation

A technique used to separate DNA from cell waste according to density.

Supernatant

The liquid portion above the solid residue after centrifugation.