A&P Chapter 4: Genes and Cellular Function

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering DNA structure, cell division, protein synthesis, and cellular respiration based on BIOL2710 lecture notes.

DNA

A polymer of nucleotides where each nucleotide contains deoxyribose, a phosphate group, and a nitrogen base.

Law of Complementary Base Pairing

A critical mechanism for accurate DNA replication where Guanine pairs with Cytosine and Adenine pairs with Thymine.

Gene

A segment of DNA that codes for a protein.

Chromatin

DNA that is loosely organized in non-dividing cells.

Chromosomes

Tightly condensed DNA structures found during cell division.

DNA Replication Purpose

Ensures each new daughter cell receives a complete and identical set of genetic information.

S phase

The specific phase of the cell cycle during which DNA replication occurs.

Prophase

The mitotic phase where chromosomes condense and the nuclear membrane breaks down.

Metaphase

The mitotic phase where chromosomes align in the middle of the cell.

Anaphase

The mitotic phase where sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles.

Telophase

The mitotic phase where nuclear membranes reform and chromosomes uncoil.

Central Dogma

The flow of genetic information: DNA \rightarrow RNA \rightarrow Protein.

Transcription

The process of DNA \rightarrow RNA occurring in the nucleus; during this process, Adenine ($A$) pairs with Uracil ($U$).

Translation

The process of RNA \rightarrow protein.

Gene Activation

The mechanism that allows different cell types to produce different proteins despite containing the same DNA.

mRNA

Type of RNA that carries the genetic code.

tRNA

Type of RNA that delivers amino acids.

rRNA

Type of RNA that forms ribosomes.

Codon

A group of three nucleotides; more than one codon can code for a specific amino acid.

AUG

The specific codon that signals the start of translation.

Cellular Respiration

The process of converting Glucose into ATP, with products including $CO_2$, $H_2O$, and ATP.

Glycolysis

Stage occurring in the cytoplasm where glucose is split into pyruvate, producing a net of $2$ ATP.

Pyruvate Oxidation

Stage occurring in the mitochondria where pyruvate is converted to acetyl-CoA.

Krebs Cycle

Mitochondrial stage where $CO_2$ is released, and electron carriers and some ATP are produced.

Electron Transport Chain (ETC)

Stage in the inner mitochondrial membrane that produces a large amount of ATP with Oxygen ($O_2$) as the final electron acceptor.

ATP Synthase

The enzyme through which $H^+$ ions flow down their concentration gradient, releasing energy used to make ATP.

Fermentation

An anaerobic process (does not require oxygen) that produces lactic acid or ethanol.