Genetic Variation and Evolution

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to genetic variation, mutation, evolutionary principles, and mechanisms of gene expression.

Central Dogma

The process by which DNA is transcribed into mRNA, which is then translated into protein.

Phenotype

Any observable feature of an organism that can be seen, measured, or detected.

Amino Acids

The monomers that are linked together to form proteins, essential for various biological functions.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, a macromolecule composed of nucleotides that carries genetic information.

RNA

Ribonucleic acid, essential for coding, decoding, regulation and expression of genes.

Gene Expression

The process by which information from a gene is transformed into a product, such as protein.

Transcription

The process by which RNA is synthesized from a DNA template.

Translation

The process by which ribosomes decode mRNA to produce proteins.

Mutation

Any change to the genomic sequence, which can introduce genetic variation.

Ploidy

The number of copies of unique chromosomes in a cell.

Gene Duplication

The process by which a gene is copied, potentially leading to new functions or pseudogenes.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an individual.

Natural Selection

The process by which individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

A condition in which allele frequencies in a population remain constant over time.

Fitness

The ability of an individual to produce viable, fertile offspring relative to others in the population.

Polyphenism

The phenomenon where a single genotype can produce multiple phenotypes in response to environmental conditions.