Applied Microbiology Week 5 Lecture Notes

Flashcards covering key concepts in microbial genetics, including DNA structure, transcription, translation, mutations, and genetic exchange mechanisms.

Genetics

The study of heredity, genes, information, expression, and replication.

Genome

All genetic material in a cell.

DNA

Controls cell structure, metabolism, growth, and reproduction.

Nucleotide

The basic building block of DNA, consisting of a nitrogenous base, sugar (deoxyribose), and phosphate group.

Transcription

The process of converting DNA into RNA.

Translation

The process of synthesizing proteins from RNA.

Codon

A sequence of three bases in mRNA that codes for one amino acid.

Anticodon

A sequence of three bases in tRNA that pairs with a codon.

Operon

A unit of gene expression and regulation that consists of a promoter, operator, and structural genes.

Lac Operon

A genetic system that controls the metabolism of lactose in bacteria.

Point Mutation

A stable, heritable change in DNA involving a single nucleotide.

Frameshift Mutation

Mutations that result from insertions or deletions shifting the reading frame of the genetic code.

Mutagen

An agent that causes mutations, which can be chemical or physical.

Ames Test

A test that uses Salmonella mutants to measure mutation reversion rates.

Vertical Gene Transfer

The transfer of genetic material from parent to offspring.

Horizontal Gene Transfer

The transfer of genetic material between cells of the same generation.

Transformation

The uptake of naked DNA from the environment by a cell.

Conjugation

The process of direct cell-to-cell contact for gene transfer, involving F plasmids.

Transduction

DNA transfer via bacteriophages.

Plasmids

Small circular DNA that replicates independently and often carries antibiotic resistance genes.

Transposons

Sequences of DNA that can move between DNA molecules, spreading resistance.