Chapter 13: The Chromosomal Basis of Inheritance

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts from Chapter 13 on the chromosomal basis of inheritance, which includes topics like genetic mapping, sex-linked traits, and various genetic disorders.

Chromosomal Theory of Inheritance

The theory that explains how chromosomes are the carriers of genetic information, proposed by scientists such as Walter Sutton.

Sex Chromosomes

Chromosomes that determine the sex of an organism; in humans, they are X and Y chromosomes.

Dosage Compensation

The process that ensures equal expression of genes from sex chromosomes in organisms with different numbers of sex chromosomes.

Linkage

The tendency of genes that are located close to each other on a chromosome to be inherited together.

Recombination Frequency

The frequency with which independent assortment and crossing over occurs between two genes on a chromosome.

Aneuploidy

A genetic condition in which there is an abnormal number of chromosomes, such as monosomy or trisomy.

X-linked traits

Traits that are determined by genes located on the X chromosome, often resulting in different expression in males and females.

Genetic Mapping

The process of determining the location and chemical sequence of genes on a chromosome.

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)

Variations at a single position in a DNA sequence among individuals that can be used as markers in genetic mapping.

Genomic Imprinting

A type of epigenetic inheritance where the expression of an allele depends on whether it was inherited from the mother or the father.

Maternal Inheritance

Inheritance of traits that are controlled by genes found in the mitochondria, typically passed from mother to offspring.

Testcross

A cross between a homozygous recessive individual and an individual with an unknown genotype to determine the genotype of the latter.

Pedigree Analysis

A chart depicting family relationships and traits over generations, used to analyze patterns of inheritance.

Nondisjunction

The failure of homologous chromosomes to separate properly during meiosis, leading to aneuploidy.

Trisomy

The presence of an extra chromosome in an organism, often leading to genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome.

Hemophilia

A genetic disorder caused by a deficiency of a clotting factor, often inherited in an X-linked recessive manner.

Sickle Cell Disease

An autosomal recessive genetic disorder caused by a mutation in hemoglobin, leading to impaired oxygen delivery.

Huntington Disease

A genetic disorder caused by a dominant allele that leads to progressive deterioration of brain cells.