Inheritance, Genes, and Chromosomes

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to inheritance, genes, and chromosomes. They will help reinforce understanding of genetic principles and mechanisms.

DNA

Heritable molecule that provides continuity of life and carries genetic information.

The Central Dogma

Describes the flow of genetic information from DNA to RNA to protein.

Haploid

Cell or organism with a single set of chromosomes (n).

Law of Segregation

Mendel's law stating that allele pairs separate during gamete formation.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an organism, represented by alleles (e.g. Aa, AA).

Phenotype

Observable traits of an organism resulting from the interaction of its genotype with the environment.

Epistasis

The interaction between genes where the expression of one gene affects the expression of another gene.

Pleiotropy

A single gene influencing multiple phenotypic traits.

Codominance

Condition in which both alleles of a gene are expressed equally in the phenotype.

Incomplete Dominance

Condition in which neither allele is completely dominant and results in a blend of phenotypes.

Autosomal Recessive

A trait that requires two copies of a recessive allele for expression.

X-linked Inheritance

Pattern of inheritance for genes located on the X chromosome.

Pedigree Analysis

A family tree diagram that traces the inheritance of traits across generations.

Genetic Diversity

The variety of genetic characteristics in a population, which arises through mutations and gene transfer.

Recombination

The process of forming new allele combinations in offspring through crossing over during meiosis.

Monohybrid Cross

A genetic cross between parents that differ in a single trait.

Dihybrid Cross

A genetic cross between parents that differ in two traits.

Test Cross

Breeding an individual of unknown genotype with a homozygous recessive to determine the genotype.

Horizontal Gene Transfer

The transfer of genetic material between organisms other than through vertical transmission.