Genetic Inheritance & Mutation

Flashcards covering key vocabulary from the lecture notes on Genetic Inheritance and Mutation, including definitions of genotype, phenotype, types of mutations, and their evolutionary significance.

Genotype

The unique combination of genetic material (genome) an individual possesses, which partly contributes to phenotype differences.

Phenotype

The observable characteristics of an individual, which are partly determined by genetic factors (genotype) and non-genetic factors.

Genetic Inheritance

The process by which shared genes partly account for the resemblance between parents and offspring, and between siblings.

Genetic Variation

Differences in genotypes among individuals in a population, which is a prerequisite for any evolutionary change.

Mutation

The source of all genetic variation, resulting from errors in DNA replication, and can happen at any point of the cell cycle (mitosis and/or meiosis).

Point Mutation

A main class of mutation involving an alteration at a single point in the DNA sequence, often affecting a codon and amino acid translation (e.g., Substitution).

Substitution (Point Mutation)

A type of point mutation where one nucleotide base is replaced by another in the DNA sequence.

Mutation Altering Gene Number or Position

A main class of mutations that includes changes like insertions, deletions, and inversions of gene segments.

Insertion (Mutation)

A type of mutation where one or more nucleotide bases are added into a DNA sequence, causing a frameshift.

Deletion (Mutation)

A type of mutation where one or more nucleotide bases are removed from a DNA sequence, causing a frameshift.

Inversion (Mutation)

A type of mutation where a segment of a chromosome is reversed end to end.

Duplication (Mutation)

A main class of mutation where a segment of a chromosome or gene is repeated.

Germ Cell Mutation

A mutation that appears in the germ cells (e.g., those that make gametes like sperm and eggs) and can therefore be passed on to the next generation.

Somatic Cell Mutation

A mutation that appears in somatic cells (body cells) and is not inherited by offspring in multicellular sexually reproducing organisms.