DNA Profiling and Genetic Diseases: Midterm 3 Review

A collection of flashcards covering key concepts related to DNA profiling, genetic diseases, and the processes of cell division, gene expression, and protein synthesis.

Chromatin

The material that makes up chromosomes, consisting of DNA and proteins.

Nucleotides

Building blocks of DNA, each consisting of a sugar, phosphate group, and nitrogenous base.

Semi-conservative replication

The method of DNA replication where each new DNA molecule consists of one original and one new strand.

Central Dogma of Molecular Biology

The process by which DNA is transcribed to RNA and then translated into proteins.

Gene expression

The process by which specific genes are expressed in a cell, determining its function and phenotype.

Mutagen

An environmental agent that causes mutations in DNA.

Oncogene

A mutated form of a proto-oncogene that promotes uncontrolled cell division.

Tumor suppressor genes

Genes that regulate cell division and prevent the formation of tumors.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

A technique used to amplify a specific region of DNA, making many copies for analysis.

Gel electrophoresis

A method for separating DNA fragments based on their size by applying an electric current.

Asexual reproduction

A form of reproduction that creates genetically identical offspring from a single parent.

Sexual reproduction

The process of forming a new individual through the fusion of gametes from two parents.

Zygote

The fertilized egg cell that results from the fusion of sperm and egg.

Cleavage

The series of rapid cell divisions that occur after fertilization.

Blastocyst

A fluid-filled sphere that forms during the early stages of embryonic development.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to variations in traits and is a source of genetic diversity.

Frameshift mutation

A mutation that shifts the reading frame of the genetic message, often resulting in a completely different protein.

Point mutation

A mutation that involves a change to one nucleotide base, which can alter the resulting protein.

Nondisjunction

The failure of chromosomes to separate properly during cell division, leading to abnormal chromosome numbers.

Transcription

The process of synthesizing RNA from a DNA template.

Translation

The process of synthesizing proteins based on the information in mRNA.

CRISPR

A gene-editing technology that allows for precise modifications to DNA.

DNA Profiling

A set of techniques used to determine an individual's DNA characteristics for identification purposes.

Transgenic organism

An organism that has been genetically modified to contain a gene from another species.