Gene Expression and Cloning

Vocabulary terms related to gene expression and cloning processes.

mRNA

Messenger RNA; a molecule that conveys genetic information from DNA to the ribosome, where proteins are synthesized.

Noncoding RNAs

RNA molecules that do not encode proteins but have roles in regulating gene expression.

Operons

Units of genetic expression in prokaryotes, where related genes are controlled together.

Transcription Factors

Proteins that promote the binding of RNA polymerase to DNA in order to initiate transcription.

Epigenetic Inheritance

Transmission of information from one generation to the next that does not involve the nucleotide sequence but involves chemical modifications.

Nuclear Transplantation

A method of cloning where the nucleus of a donor cell is inserted into an egg cell that has had its nucleus removed.

Therapeutic Cloning

Cloning aimed at producing embryonic stem cells for medical purposes.

Proto-oncogene

A normal gene that promotes cell division; mutations can turn it into an oncogene which leads to uncontrolled cell growth.

Tumor-suppressor Genes

Genes that regulate cell division; mutations that inactivate these genes can lead to cancer.

Signal Transduction Pathways

Biological pathways that relay signals from outside the cell to elicit a response within the cell.

mRNA

Messenger RNA; a molecule that conveys genetic information from DNA to the ribosome, where proteins are synthesized.

Noncoding RNAs

RNA molecules that do not encode proteins but have roles in regulating gene expression.

Operons

Units of genetic expression in prokaryotes, where related genes are controlled together.

Transcription Factors

Proteins that promote the binding of RNA polymerase to DNA in order to initiate transcription.

Epigenetic Inheritance

Transmission of information from one generation to the next that does not involve the nucleotide sequence but involves chemical modifications.

Nuclear Transplantation

A method of cloning where the nucleus of a donor cell is inserted into an egg cell that has had its nucleus removed.