Molecular Bio and Genetics - Gene Interactions

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to gene interactions from the lecture on Molecular Biology and Genetics.

Pleiotropy

A single gene is responsible for multiple distinct and seemingly unrelated phenotypic effects.

Gene Interaction

The manner in which different genes influence each other's expression and effect on a phenotype.

Epistasis

The effect of one gene is dependent on the presence of one or more other genes, often masking their expression.

Dihybrid Cross

A genetic cross that studies two traits; typically results in a 9:3:3:1 ratio for non-interacting genes.

Mendelian Complications

Situations where basic Mendelian inheritance rules do not fully explain inheritance patterns due to complexities like multiple alleles or linkage.

Genotype

The genetic constitution of an individual, represented by the alleles inherited.

Phenotype

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

Interacting Genes

Genes that affect the same trait and whose individual contributions to a phenotype cannot be separated through simple inheritance ratios.

Black-eyed Mary (Plant)

Example used to illustrate gene interactions affecting phenotype.

Malpighian Tubules

The kidney-like structures in Drosophila affected by the white eye mutation.

Hareballs (Campanula rotundifolia)

An example of gene interactions in the same pathway leading to a 9:7 phenotypic ratio.