Genetics and Central Dogma of Molecular Biology

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to genetics and the central dogma of molecular biology as discussed in the lecture.

Gene

A specific sequence of nucleotides on a strand of DNA that provides instructions for making a protein or RNA product.

Central Dogma

The flow of genetic information from DNA to RNA to protein, consisting of processes like transcription and translation.

Transcription

The process of copying a segment of DNA into RNA.

Translation

The process of synthesizing a protein based on the sequence of a messenger RNA (mRNA) template.

Phenotype

The observable traits or characteristics of an individual resulting from the interaction of its genotype with the environment.

Genotype

The genetic constitution of an individual; the specific alleles inherited from parents.

Allele

Different versions of a gene that can exist at a specific locus on a chromosome.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can affect the function of genes and may lead to different traits.

Codon

A sequence of three nucleotides that correspond to a specific amino acid during protein synthesis.

Degeneracy of the Genetic Code

The property of the genetic code where multiple codons can encode the same amino acid, providing some protection against mutations.

One Gene, One Enzyme Hypothesis

The hypothesis that each gene encodes a specific enzyme that catalyzes a biochemical reaction.

Alternative Splicing

A process where a single gene can lead to multiple different proteins by including or excluding certain sequences (exons) during RNA processing.

Metabolic Pathway

A series of chemical reactions in a cell that build and breakdown molecules for cellular processes.

Homozygous

Having two identical alleles for a particular gene.

Heterozygous

Having two different alleles for a particular gene.

Complete Medium

A growth medium that contains all necessary nutrients for an organism.

Minimum Medium

A growth medium that contains only the essential nutrients required for growth.

Wild Type

The typical form of a species, as it occurs in nature, often used as a reference in genetics.

Recessive Allele

An allele that is masked by the presence of a dominant allele and only expresses its effect in a homozygous condition.

Dominant Allele

An allele that expresses its trait in a heterozygous condition.

Central Dogma Process Steps

The main steps are: DNA -> Transcription (DNA to mRNA) -> Translation (mRNA to Protein).