Genetic Variation and Evolution

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to genetic variation and evolutionary mechanisms as per lecture notes.

Paternal Chromosome

The chromosome inherited from the father.

Maternal Chromosome

The chromosome inherited from the mother.

Crossing Over

A process during meiosis where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material to create variation.

Meiosis I

The first division of meiosis, reducing chromosome number by half and leading to genetic variation.

Meiosis II

The second division of meiosis, where the sister chromatids separate to form four haploid cells.

Natural Selection

The process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Mutation

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

Genetic Drift

The random fluctuation of allele frequencies in a population, which can lead to the loss of genetic variation.

Gene Flow

The transfer of genetic material between populations through migration.

Phenotypic Variation

Variation in observable traits among individuals within a population.

Genetic Variation

Differences in the genetic makeup of individuals within a population.

Heritable Variation

Phenotypic variation that is passed from parents to offspring through genetic differences.

Population

A group of interbreeding individuals of the same species.

Somatic Mutations

Mutations that occur in non-reproductive cells and are not passed onto offspring.

Germ-line Mutations

Mutations that occur in sperm or egg cells and are heritable.

Point Mutation

A mutation affecting a single nucleotide in the DNA sequence.

Central Dogma

The framework stating that DNA is transcribed to RNA, which is then translated into proteins.

Transcription Factors

Proteins that help regulate the transcription of specific genes.

Cis-acting Elements

DNA sequences that regulate genes on the same chromosome.

Trans-acting Elements

Factors, usually proteins, that can regulate genes located on different chromosomes.