Biotechnology and Evolution Lecture Notes

A set of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from lectures on biotechnology, genetics, evolution, and their mechanisms.

Selective Breeding (Artificial Selection)

A traditional method of genetic manipulation through controlled mating to achieve desirable traits in a species.

Gene Editing

A modern approach that directly modifies DNA in an organism to introduce specific traits quickly, using technologies like CRISPR.

Endogenous

Arising or growing from within an organism.

Molecular Cloning

The process of isolating a specific DNA sequence and inserting it into a replicating vector.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

A technique used to amplify DNA, mimicking natural DNA replication to make millions of copies of a DNA fragment.

Gel Electrophoresis

A method for separating DNA fragments by size to allow for identification of specific pieces.

CRISPR-Cas9 system

A bacterial adaptive immune system that allows for precise gene editing by targeting specific DNA locations.

Reproductive Cloning

The process of creating a genetically identical copy of an entire organism.

Therapeutic Cloning

The technique used to generate patient-specific cells and tissues for medical treatments.

Evolution

The change in the genetic composition of populations over time, affecting allele frequencies.

Natural Selection

A non-random process that links genotype to phenotype, favoring traits that enhance survival and reproduction.

Genetic Drift

Random changes in allele frequencies that can lead to divergence between populations, particularly in small populations.

Gene Flow

The movement of alleles between populations, which can homogenize genetic differences.

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

A state describing a population where allele frequencies remain constant across generations, indicating no evolutionary forces acting upon it.

Sympatric Speciation

The process of speciation that occurs without geographic isolation, often due to behavioral or ecological factors.

Allopatric Speciation

The process of speciation that occurs due to geographic isolation preventing gene flow between populations.

Adaptive Radiation

The evolution of a group of species from a common ancestor, adapting to different environmental niches.

Phylogeny

The evolutionary history of a species or group, often depicted in a tree-like diagram.

Systematics

The scientific study of evolutionary relationships and classification of organisms based on shared ancestry.

Clade

A group of species that includes a common ancestor and all its descendants.

Homologous Structures

Anatomical features that share a common ancestral origin, even if their functions differ.

Homoplastic Structures

Traits that have similar functions but evolved independently in different lineages.

Biological Species Concept

Defines a species based on the ability to produce fertile offspring.

Stromatolites

Layered bio-chemical accretionary deposits formed by microbial mats; provide evidence of ancient life.