matching BIO notes

What are sex chromosomes and which ones are typically found in many organisms?

Chromosomes that determine sex, typically X and Y.

What is the role of histones in genetic regulation?

Histones are proteins that package DNA into nucleosomes, crucial for regulating gene expression.

What are sister chromatids?

Duplicated halves of a chromosome connected by a centromere, which are separated during cell division.

What is a centromere?

The region of a chromosome where sister chromatids are joined, essential for chromosomal movement during division.

What is a nucleosome?

The fundamental unit of DNA packaging in eukaryotes, consisting of DNA wrapped around histone proteins.

What defines the sugar-phosphate backbone of DNA?

The outer part of the DNA molecule composed of phosphate and sugar molecules, providing structural support.

What does anti-parallel mean in the context of DNA structure?

The arrangement of the double helix in which the two strands run in opposite directions (one 5’ to 3’, the other 3’ to 5’).

What does complementary mean in terms of DNA base pairing?

Describes the specific base-pairing rules where adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T) and cytosine (C) pairs with guanine (G).

What is a base pair in DNA?

Each step of the DNA ladder, composed of purine (A or G) paired with pyrimidine (T or C) through hydrogen bonds.

What is the shape of DNA known as?

The twisted, ladder-like shape of DNA, referred to as a double helix.

What does diploid mean?

Having two sets of chromosomes (2n), one from each parent.

What does haploid refer to?

Having one set of chromosomes (1n), typically found in gametes (sperm and egg cells).

What is a chromosome?

A compact form of DNA packaged with proteins, essential for genetic organization and inheritance.

What is chromatin?

The less condensed form of DNA and proteins found in the nucleus, which condenses into chromosomes during cell division.

What is a nucleotide?

The monomer of nucleic acids, consisting of a nitrogenous base, a sugar, and a phosphate group.

What are nucleic acids?

Organic macromolecules composed of nucleotides, including DNA and RNA, which store and transmit genetic information.

What is a gene?

A functional unit of DNA that encodes the amino acid sequence of a protein.