Chapter 1-7: Prenatal Development and Genetics - Vocabulary Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering major genetics, prenatal development concepts, and key terms from the lecture notes.

Natural selection

Evolutionary process by which individuals best adapted survive and reproduce more frequently, shaping the species over generations.

Fitness

The ability to bear offspring that survive to reproduce, increasing the likelihood that an individual’s genes are passed on.

Evolutionary psychology

The study of how adaptation and reproductive pressures shape human behavior across generations.

Bidirectional view (nature and nurture)

The idea that biology and environment influence each other; genes do not determine behavior in isolation.

Genes

Units of heredity; DNA segments that influence traits and are inherited from parents.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid; the molecule that carries the genetic instructions for life.

Fertilization

The union of egg and sperm to form a single cell, initiating genetic combination.

Zygote

The fertilized single cell that contains genetic material from both parents.

Genotype

An individual’s complete set of genes and genetic makeup.

Phenotype

Observable characteristics of an individual, resulting from the interaction of genotype with the environment.

Twin studies

Research comparing identical and fraternal twins to estimate genetic and environmental influences.

Identical twins (monozygotic)

Twins derived from one fertilized egg with identical genetic material.

Fraternal twins (dizygotic)

Twins from two separate fertilized eggs with different genetic material, like typical siblings.

Adoption studies

Research comparing adopted children to their biological and adoptive parents to separate heredity from environment.

Germinal period

First two weeks after conception, including fertilization, cell division, and implantation.

Blastocyst

Early embryonic stage with inner cell mass and trophoblast that implants in the uterus.

Trophoblast

Outer layer of the blastocyst that provides nutrition and support for the embryo.

Embryonic period

Weeks 2–8 after conception; organ formation begins (organogenesis).

Endoderm

Inner germ layer that forms digestive and respiratory systems.

Mesoderm

Middle germ layer that forms the circulatory system, bones, and muscles.

Ectoderm

Outer germ layer that forms the nervous system and sensory organs.

Organogenesis

Process of organ formation during the embryonic period; organs become functional but are vulnerable to teratogens.

Amnion

The sac that contains amniotic fluid, surrounding and cushioning the embryo.

Amniotic fluid

Liquid surrounding the fetus inside the amniotic sac, protecting and regulating temperature and movement.

Placenta

Organ connecting mother and fetus for nutrient and gas exchange; can impact birth if positioned abnormally.

Umbilical cord

Cord containing vessels (two arteries and one vein) that carries blood between fetus and placenta.

Ultrasound

Imaging procedure to visualize the fetus, monitor growth, anatomy, heartbeat, and multiple pregnancies.

Fetal heart rate

The heartbeat of the fetus, used as a key indicator of fetal health (often around 150–160 bpm early in gestation).

Viability

Likelihood that a fetus can survive outside the womb, typically around the beginning of the third trimester (roughly 24 weeks).

Fetal period

From about two months after conception to birth; marked by rapid growth and development of body structures.

Ectopic pregnancy

A fertilized egg implants outside the uterus (usually in the fallopian tube), posing serious risk to mother and usually not viable for the fetus.

Folate/folic acid

Vitamin essential for neural development; helps prevent neural tube defects such as anencephaly and spina bifida.

Neural tube defects

Birth defects caused by failure of the neural tube to close (e.g., anencephaly, spina bifida).

Neurogenesis

Generation of new neurons, peaking in early fetal development (notably around weeks 6–24).

Neuronal migration

Movement of neurons to their final locations in the brain during fetal development.

Vaginal delivery

Birth canal delivery; generally preferred due to lower complication rates when safe for mother and baby.

Cesarean section

Surgical delivery performed in emergencies or planned for safety when vaginal delivery is not advisable.

Breech

Delivery of the baby feet or buttocks first; increases complications and may necessitate cesarean.

Miscarriage

Spontaneous loss of pregnancy before viability.

Stillbirth

Fetal death after a gestational age has been reached but before birth.

Infertility

Inability to conceive after a substantial period of trying.

Reproductive technology

Medical techniques used to assist reproduction (e.g., IVF, fertility therapies).

In utero surgery

Surgical interventions performed on a fetus while still in the uterus.