Protein Synthesis, Cell Cycle, and DNA Replication

Vocabulary flashcards covering the processes of transcription, translation, DNA replication, and the phases of the cell cycle as described in the lecture.

Transcription

The process occurring in the nucleus where a section of DNA is copied into mRNA to carry the genetic code.

RNA polymerase

An enzyme that helps build the mRNA strand by matching RNA bases to the DNA bases.

Translation

The process at the ribosome in the cytoplasm where proteins are made using instructions carried by mRNA.

Codon

A group of $3$ bases found on mRNA that codes for a specific amino acid.

tRNA (Transfer RNA)

RNA that brings the correct amino acids to the ribosome by matching its anticodon with the codon on the mRNA.

Anticodon

A group of $3$ bases on tRNA that matches a codon on mRNA to ensure the correct amino acid is added.

Cell Cycle

The ordered series of events a cell goes through to grow, replicate its DNA, and divide into two daughter cells.

Interphase

The longest stage of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division, consisting of $G1$, $S$, and $G2$ phases.

G1 phase (Gap 1)

The phase where the cell grows, performs normal functions, and produces proteins and organelles.

S phase (Synthesis)

The phase of the cell cycle where DNA is replicated so each chromosome is copied.

G2 phase (Gap 2)

The stage where further growth occurs and the cell checks DNA for errors before mitosis.

Mitosis

The phase where the nucleus divides into two identical nuclei through prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm to form two genetically identical daughter cells.

Checkpoints

Regulatory stages ($G1$, $G2$, and $M$) that ensure DNA is correctly replicated and undamaged.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death triggered if errors are detected during the cell cycle to prevent abnormal growth.

Semi-conservative

A term describing DNA replication where each new molecule contains one original parent strand and one newly made strand.

Helicase

An enzyme that breaks the hydrogen bonds between the two strands of DNA to unwind the double helix.

DNA polymerase

The enzyme that builds new DNA strands by adding complementary nucleotides during replication.

Uracil

The nitrogen base in RNA that pairs with adenine ($A-U$) instead of thymine.

Deoxyribose

The sugar found in DNA, which contains one less oxygen atom than ribose.

rRNA (Ribosomal RNA)

RNA that combines with proteins to form ribosomes, which are essential for protein synthesis.

mRNA (Messenger RNA)

RNA that carries genetic instructions from DNA in the nucleus to the ribosome.