genetics 11

Genetics

The branch of biology studying genetic materials and how traits pass from one generation to the next through genes.

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

The hereditary material in organisms, existing as a double helix that stores all genetic information.

RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)

Single-stranded nucleic acid that plays a key role in protein synthesis and serves as genetic material in some viruses.

Double Helix Structure

The twisted ladder structure of DNA composed of two polynucleotide chains.

Nucleotides

The building blocks of DNA and RNA, consisting of a sugar, phosphate group, and nitrogenous base.

Base Pairing Rule

In DNA, adenine pairs with thymine (A-T) and cytosine pairs with guanine (C-G).

Antiparallel Strands

Refers to the two strands of DNA running in opposite directions.

Gene

A segment of DNA that contains instructions for an organism's traits.

Chromosome

Threadlike structures made of DNA and proteins that carry genes.

Diploid

A cell or organism with two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Semiconservative Process

The method of DNA replication where each new double helix contains one original and one new strand.

Key Enzymes in DNA Replication

Proteins that facilitate the process of copying DNA.

Interphase

The stage of the cell cycle that involves cell growth and DNA replication.

Mitosis

The process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells.

Prophase

The stage of mitosis where chromosomes condense and the nuclear envelope breaks down.

Metaphase

The stage of mitosis where chromosomes align at the cell equator.

Anaphase

The stage of mitosis where sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles.

Telophase

The final stage of mitosis where chromosomes decondense and the nuclear envelope reforms.

Meiosis

A specialized type of cell division that produces haploid sex cells.

Haploid

A cell with half the normal number of chromosomes, characteristic of gametes.

Transcription

The process of copying DNA into messenger RNA (mRNA).

Translation

The process of decoding mRNA to synthesize proteins.

Central Dogma of Molecular Biology

The flow of genetic information: DNA → RNA → Protein.

mRNA (messenger RNA)

The RNA that carries genetic code from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis.

tRNA (transfer RNA)

The RNA that brings amino acids to ribosomes during protein synthesis.

rRNA (ribosomal RNA)

The RNA that is a structural component of ribosomes, facilitating translation.

Crossing Over

The exchange of segments between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Independent Assortment

The random distribution of maternal and paternal chromosomes during meiosis.

Cytokinesis

The process of dividing the cytoplasm to form two separate cells after mitosis.

Cell Cycle

An ordered series of events that a cell undergoes from division to division.

G1 Phase

The first phase of interphase where the cell grows and prepares for DNA replication.

G0 Phase

A resting phase of the cell cycle where the cell is metabolically active but not dividing.