Biology 30 Genetics Unit

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cell division, DNA, RNA, genetics, and their implications in biology.

Cell Cycle

The series of events that take place in a cell leading to its division and duplication.

Mitosis

A process of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells, each with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

Meiosis

A two-step division process that results in four haploid cells, each with half the number of chromosomes of the original cell.

Chromosome Number

The total amount of chromosomes in a cell, which can be diploid (2n), haploid (n), or polyploid.

Karyotype

A display of the number and appearance of the chromosomes in the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell.

DNA Replication

The process of making an identical copy of DNA, which occurs before cell division.

Transcription

The process of copying a segment of DNA into RNA.

Translation

The process where ribosomes create proteins based on the sequence of mRNA.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to genetic variation.

Genetic Engineering

The direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology.

Diploidy

A condition where cells have two complete sets of chromosomes.

Haploidy

A condition where cells have only one complete set of chromosomes.

Polyploidy

A condition where cells have more than two complete sets of chromosomes.

Crossing Over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Nondisjunction

The failure of homologous chromosomes or sister chromatids to separate properly during meiosis.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and eggs) that are haploid.

Somatic Cells

Any cell of a living organism other than the reproductive cells.

Spermatogenesis

The process of sperm cell development.

Oogenesis

The process of egg cell development.

Stem Cells

Undifferentiated cells capable of differentiating into various cell types.

Clone

An organism or cell produced asexually from one ancestor or stock.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm to form two separate daughter cells after mitosis or meiosis.

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)

The DNA located in mitochondria, inherited only from the mother.

Ribosome

A cellular structure where proteins are synthesized.

Restriction Enzymes

Enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences.

Ligase

An enzyme that joins two DNA strands together.

DNA Fingerprinting

A technique used to distinguish between individuals by analyzing unique patterns in their DNA.

Gel Electrophoresis

A method for separating DNA fragments based on their size.

Chromatid

Each of the two strands into which a chromosome divides during cell division.

Polypeptide

A chain of amino acids linked by peptide bonds.

Amino Acid

The building blocks of proteins, coded by codons in mRNA.

Codon

A sequence of three nucleotides in mRNA that codes for a specific amino acid.

Anticodon

A sequence of three nucleotides in tRNA that matches a corresponding codon in mRNA.

Phenotype

The observable characteristics or traits of an organism.

Genotype

The genetic constitution of an organism.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells with a nucleus and organelles, including animals, plants, and fungi.

Prokaryotic Cells

Single-celled organisms without a nucleus, such as bacteria.

Genetic Variation

Differences in DNA among individuals, crucial for evolution.

Evolution

The process by which populations change over generations through genetic variation and natural selection.

Allele

Different forms of a gene that exist at a particular locus.

Traits

Characteristics that are inherited and can be influenced by genes.

Societal Perspective

The viewpoint relating to the collective social process and its implications.

Cultural Perspective

The viewpoint influenced by social beliefs, norms, and practices of a specific community.

Ethical Perspective

The viewpoint considering the moral implications of decisions and actions.

Environmental Perspective

The viewpoint considering ecological issues and their impacts on organisms and habitats.

Economic Perspective

The viewpoint relating to issues of costs, benefits, and resource allocation.

Clinical Genetics

The branch of medicine that involves the diagnosis and management of hereditary disorders.

Biotechnology

The use of biological systems or living organisms for the development of products.

Hereditary

Relating to characteristics that are passed down from parents to offspring.

DNA Repair

The collection of processes by which a cell identifies and corrects damage to its DNA.

Phenotypic Plasticity

The ability of an organism to change its phenotype in response to environmental conditions.