The Cellular Basis of Reproduction and Inheritance

Flashcards covering key vocabulary terms related to the cellular basis of reproduction and inheritance.

Cell Division

The process by which a cell divides into two or more daughter cells.

Asexual Reproduction

A form of reproduction where offspring are produced from a single parent and are genetic copies (clones).

Sexual Reproduction

A form of reproduction involving the mixing of genetic material from multiple parents to create offspring with genetic diversity.

Binary Fission

A method of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes where the cell divides in half to form two identical daughter cells.

Chromatin

A complex of DNA and proteins found in the nucleus that condenses to form chromosomes during cell division.

Sister Chromatids

Identical copies of a chromosome that are joined together at the centromere and separated during cell division.

Cell Cycle

An ordered sequence of events in a cell, leading to its division and replication.

Mitosis

A type of cell division that results in two genetically identical diploid daughter cells.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four genetically unique haploid gametes.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and eggs) that have only one set of chromosomes.

Crossing Over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis, leading to genetic variation.

Nondisjunction

The failure of homologous chromosomes or sister chromatids to separate properly during cell division, resulting in abnormal chromosome numbers.

Karyotype

A photographic inventory of an individual’s chromosomes arranged in ordered pairs for analysis.

Trisomy 21

A chromosomal condition caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21, commonly known as Down syndrome.

Polyploid

An organism having more than two complete sets of chromosomes, which can influence evolution by creating new species.

Chromosomal Alterations

Changes in chromosome structure that can lead to genetic disorders or cancer, including deletions, duplications, inversions, and translocations.

Cleavage Furrow

The indentation that begins to form in the cell membrane of an animal cell during cytokinesis, leading to cell division.

Cell Plate

A structure that forms during cytokinesis in plant cells, leading to the creation of a new cell wall between the daughter cells.

Cell Cycle Checkpoints

Control mechanisms in the cell cycle that ensure the proper progression and integrity of the cell division process.