Chromosomes and Cellular Reproduction

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to chromosomes and cellular reproduction, as discussed in the lecture notes.

Prokaryote

A unicellular organism that lacks a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Eukaryote

An organism whose cells contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Genome

The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.

Haploid

A cell that contains one complete set of chromosomes.

Diploid

A cell that contains two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Homologous chromosomes

Chromosomes that have the same sequence of genes and structure, but may have different alleles.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing haploid gametes.

Mitosis

A type of cell division that results in two daughter cells identical to the parent cell, preserving the chromosome number.

Centromere

The region of a chromosome where sister chromatids are joined and where the spindle fibers attach during cell division.

Karyotype

The number and appearance of chromosomes in the nucleus of a cell.

Crossing over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis that increases genetic diversity.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm, resulting in two daughter cells at the end of cell division.

G1 phase

The first phase of interphase in the cell cycle, during which the cell grows and synthesizes proteins required for cell division.

S phase

The phase of the cell cycle in which DNA is replicated.

G2 phase

The second growth phase in the cell cycle, where the cell prepares for mitosis.

Spindle checkpoint

A cell cycle checkpoint that ensures chromosomes are properly attached to the spindle apparatus before separation.

Telomeres

The protective caps at the ends of linear chromosomes, preventing deterioration.

Alleles

Different versions of a gene found at the same locus on homologous chromosomes.

Genetic variation

Differences in DNA sequences among individuals, which can lead to different traits.

Spermatogenesis

The process by which male gametes (sperm) are produced.

Oogenesis

The process by which female gametes (eggs) are produced.

Chiasma

The point at which paired chromosomes remain in contact during the first metaphase of meiosis and where crossing over occurs.

Cohesin

A protein that holds sister chromatids together during cell division.

Interphase

The longest phase of the cell cycle, during which the cell grows, replicates its DNA, and prepares for division.