Bacterial Genomes and Replication

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and definitions related to bacterial genomes, DNA structure and function, operons, plasmids, and gene expression.

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)

The molecule that stores genetic information in almost all living organisms.

Double-helix structure

The shape of DNA consisting of two strands twisted around each other.

Adenine (A)

One of the four nitrogenous bases in DNA that pairs with Thymine (T).

Thymine (T)

One of the four nitrogenous bases in DNA that pairs with Adenine (A).

Cytosine (C)

One of the four nitrogenous bases in DNA that pairs with Guanine (G).

Guanine (G)

One of the four nitrogenous bases in DNA that pairs with Cytosine (C).

Eukaryotic cells

Cells that have a nucleus where DNA is primarily located.

Nucleoid

The region in prokaryotic cells where DNA is located.

Operon

A cluster of genes that work together and are controlled by a single promoter.

Lac operon

An inducible operon in E. coli that is activated by the presence of lactose.

Plasmids

Small circular DNA molecules in bacteria that replicate independently from the main chromosome.

Chromatin

The complex of DNA and proteins (histones) that forms eukaryotic chromosomes.

Introns

Non-coding DNA sequences that are transcribed into RNA but are removed before translation.

Exons

Coding regions of DNA that are expressed as part of proteins.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs)

Small non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression post-transcription.

Spliceosome

A complex of proteins and snRNA that removes introns from a transcript.

Gene expression

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

Chromosomization

The process by which a plasmid can gain essential genes and behave like a true chromosome.

Telomeres

Protective ends of eukaryotic chromosomes that prevent DNA degradation.

Antibiotic resistance

A condition where bacteria evolve mechanisms to resist the effects of antibiotics.

Horizontal gene transfer

The movement of genetic material between organisms other than by descent.