Chapter 16 Part 2 Lecture Notes: DNA Mutations and Storage

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to DNA mutations and DNA storage from the provided lecture notes.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can affect genetic information.

Nucleases

Enzymes that cut DNA and can play a role in repairing mutations.

Somatic mutations

Mutations that occur in non-germline cells and are not passed to offspring.

Germ-line mutations

Mutations that occur in the germ cells and can be passed to offspring.

Point mutations

Mutations that only affect a single pair of nucleotides.

Chromosomes

Long sections of DNA, containing genetic information, that vary in number among different organisms.

Gene

Short sections of chromosomes that code for proteins and RNA molecules.

Nucleosome

A structural unit of a eukaryotic chromosome, consisting of a segment of DNA wrapped around histone proteins.

Chromatin fiber

The structure formed by the wrapping of DNA around histones, allowing for the compaction of DNA in the nucleus.

Histone proteins

Proteins that help package and order DNA into structural units called nucleosomes.