Interaction of Genes and Environment

These flashcards cover key concepts in the interaction of genes and the environment, focusing on reproduction, genetic conditions, and definitions related to embryonic development.

Reproduction

The biological process by which new individual organisms are produced.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and eggs) that unite during fertilization.

Zygote

A fertilized egg resulting from the union of a sperm and an egg.

Embryo

An early stage of development in multicellular organisms, after the zygote and before fetal stages.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies

Medical techniques used to aid reproduction, including in vitro fertilization.

Down Syndrome

A genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21, characterized by distinctive physical traits and developmental delays.

Trisomy-21

A condition wherein an individual has three copies of chromosome 21 instead of the normal two.

Epigenetics

The study of changes in organisms caused by modification of gene expression rather than alteration of the genetic code itself.

Monozygotic

Twins that develop from a single fertilized egg, sharing the same genetic makeup.

Dizygotic

Twins that develop from two separate fertilized eggs, sharing about 50% of their genetic material.

In Vitro Fertilization

A medical procedure in which an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body.