Unit 2 Review: Cell Biology and Reproduction

Vocabulary flashcards generated from the lecture notes on cell biology and reproduction.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that produces gametes (egg and sperm) with half the number of chromosomes, introducing genetic variation.

Mitosis

A type of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells, used for growth and repair.

Nucleus

The organelle that contains the cell's DNA and regulates gene expression.

Chromatin

The complex of DNA and proteins in a non-dividing cell, which condenses to form chromosomes during cell division.

Gene mutation

A change in the base sequence of a single gene, which can include insertion, deletion, or substitution of nucleotides.

Chromosomal mutation

A mutation that involves large segments of DNA or entire chromosomes being deleted, duplicated, or rearranged.

Cellular checkpoints

Control mechanisms in the cell cycle that ensure proper division and function by monitoring the cell's environment and internal mechanisms.

Ribosome

The molecular machine where proteins are synthesized, translating messenger RNA into polypeptide chains.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

An organelle that synthesizes, folds, modifies, and transports proteins; can be rough (with ribosomes) or smooth.

Gene therapy

An experimental technique that uses genetic material to treat or prevent disease by correcting defective genes.

Asexual reproduction

A reproductive process that involves only one parent and produces offspring identical to the parent.

Sexual reproduction

A reproductive process that involves the fusion of male and female gametes, resulting in genetic diversity among offspring.

Mutagen

An agent that causes changes in the DNA sequence, leading to mutations.

Stem cells

Undifferentiated cells that have the potential to develop into many different cell types and are used in regenerative medicine.

Fertilization

The process by which a sperm cell unites with an egg cell to form a zygote, initiating the development of a new organism.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and eggs) that contain half the genetic material of an organism.

Apoptosis

The process of programmed cell death that eliminates damaged or unnecessary cells as part of normal growth and maintenance.

Crossing over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis, leading to genetic variation.

Vesicle

A small membrane-bound sac that transports substances within the cell.

Exocytosis

The process by which a cell expels materials in vesicles through the cell membrane.

Cell differentiation

The process by which a cell becomes specialized to perform a specific function.