Genetics and Protein Synthesis (Topic 10)

Flashcards summarizing important concepts in genetics and protein synthesis, including key terms and definitions.

gene

A segment of DNA that contains the instructions for making a specific protein.

genome

The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.

chromosome

A structure composed of DNA and proteins that carries genetic information.

genetic code

The set of rules by which information encoded in genetic material is translated into proteins.

genetics

The study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics.

genotype

The genetic constitution of an individual organism.

phenotype

The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism.

one gene – one polypeptide hypothesis

The theory that each gene encodes the production of a single polypeptide.

mRNA

Messenger RNA that carries the genetic information from DNA to the ribosome for protein synthesis.

tRNA

Transfer RNA that brings amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis.

rRNA

Ribosomal RNA that makes up the core of the ribosome's structure and catalyzes protein synthesis.

transcription

The process of copying a segment of DNA into RNA.

translation

The process of decoding the mRNA sequence to synthesize a polypeptide.

RNA processing

Post-transcriptional modifications of RNA, including capping, polyadenylation, and splicing.

mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to changes in the amino acid sequence of proteins.

mutagen

An agent that causes genetic mutation.

Ames test

A test to assess the mutagenic potential of compounds by observing whether they cause mutations in bacteria.

types of mutations

Mutations can be classified as point mutations, insertions, deletions, and duplications.

effects of mutations

Mutations can affect the amino acid sequence and potentially alter protein function.

bacterial gene regulation

Bacteria regulate their genes to respond to environmental changes and conserve resources.