Genetic Variation and Susceptibility to Common Diseases

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to genetic variation and its implications for human health.

Genetic Variation

Differences in the genetic makeup of individuals within a species.

Environmental Variation

Differences in traits caused by environmental factors rather than genes.

Genetic Diversity

The overall range of genetic variations present within a species.

Genetic Susceptibility

The increased likelihood of developing a disease based on genetic factors.

Genetic Drift

Random fluctuations in the numbers of alleles in a population.

Inbreeding

Mating between individuals with similar genotypes.

Outbreeding

Mating between individuals with different genotypes.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to genetic variation.

Phenotype

The observable traits of an organism resulting from the interaction of its genotype with the environment.

Crossing Over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Phytoplankton

Microalgae in aquatic environments that play a crucial role in global carbon uptake.

Monoculture

The cultivation of a single crop species in a given area.

SNPs

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms, the most common type of genetic variation among individuals.

Gene Therapy

Experimental technique that uses genes to treat or prevent disease.

Germ-line Gene Therapy

Modification of gametes or embryos to pass changes to future generations.

Somatic Cell Gene Therapy

Modification of non-reproductive cells to treat disease in the individual.

Gene Augmentation Therapy

A technique aimed to replace or supplement a dysfunctional gene.

Polymorphism

The presence of genetic variation within a population.

Antisense Oligonucleotide

Short strands of DNA that can inhibit gene expression.

Cytologic Techniques

Methods to study the machinery and processes of cellular reproduction.

Microarray Technique

A method to analyze gene expression across thousands of genes simultaneously.