DNA and RNA: Structure, Function, and Genetic Mutations

A set of flashcards focused on key vocabulary terms related to DNA, RNA, genetic mutations, and their implications in society.

Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA)

The hereditary material found in all living things, located in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, composed of nucleotides.

Nucleotide

The basic structural unit of nucleic acids, consisting of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

DNA Polymerase

An enzyme that synthesizes new strands of DNA by adding nucleotides complementary to the template strand during DNA replication.

Transgenic Organisms

Organisms that have been genetically modified to contain genes from other species.

Gene Expression

The process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize a functional gene product, typically proteins.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to changes in the amino acid sequence of proteins.

Point Mutation

A genetic mutation where a single nucleotide base is altered, potentially affecting the corresponding amino acid.

Frame-shift Mutation

A genetic mutation caused by insertions or deletions of nucleotides that shifts the reading frame of the genetic message.

Messenger RNA (mRNA)

The molecule that transmits the genetic information from DNA to the ribosome, where it is translated into proteins.

Transfer RNA (tRNA)

RNA molecules that transport amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis, matching them with the correct mRNA codons.

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA)

RNA that forms an essential part of the ribosome's structure and plays a role in protein synthesis.

Helicase

An enzyme that unwinds the DNA double helix ahead of the replication fork during DNA replication.

RNA Polymerase

An enzyme that synthesizes RNA from a DNA template during transcription.

Intron

Non-coding regions of a gene that are removed during RNA processing before translation.

Exon

Coding regions of a gene that remain in the RNA after RNA processing and are translated into proteins.

Peptide Bonds

The chemical bonds that link amino acids together in a protein.

Designer Babies

Children whose genetic characteristics are artificially selected or modified before birth through genetic engineering techniques.

Embryo Screening

A method used to analyze embryos for genetic abnormalities before implantation during in vitro fertilization.

Biotechnology

The use of living organisms or their components to develop or create useful products, often involving genetic manipulation.

Paternity Testing

A genetic test used to determine whether an individual is the biological parent of a child, often utilizing DNA comparison.

Chromosome Abnormalities

Irregularities in chromosome structure or number, which can lead to genetic disorders.

Genetic Counseling

A process to evaluate and understand genetic risks, as well as providing support for individuals and families affected by hereditary conditions.

Bioethics

The study of ethical issues arising from advances in biology and medicine, particularly in relation to genetic engineering.