Genome Organization, Meiosis, and Human Reproductive Characteristics

Vocabulary flashcards covering viral and bacterial genome organization, primary and secondary sex characteristics, spermatogenesis, the female reproductive cycle, and cell cycle ploidy/chromosome counts.

Viral Genome

The genetic material of a virus, composed of either DNA or RNA, which can be single-stranded ($ss$) or double-stranded ($ds$).

Bacterial Genome

A genome typically organized as a single circular chromosome per cell, where double-stranded ($ds$) DNA folds inward to form loops attached to a central core.

Primary Sex Characteristics

Internal and external sex organs directly involved in reproduction, such as the testes, penis, vagina, and ovum.

Secondary Sex Characteristics

Physical traits that develop after puberty and differentiate the sexes without direct involvement in reproduction, including breasts, hips, and facial/chest hair.

Spermatogenesis

The process of cell division through meiosis that creates sperm cells from precursor cells.

Spermatid

The immature male germ cell produced at the end of meiosis during spermatogenesis before fully maturing into sperm.

Menarche

The very first menstrual cycle experienced by a female.

Menopause

The permanent cessation of menstruation, diagnosed after $1$ full calendar year has elapsed since the last menstrual period, often preceded by substantial cycle fluctuation.

G1 Stage (Cell Cycle)

The initial growth phase shown in the table where the cell contains $10$ chromosomes, $1$ double-stranded ($ds$) DNA molecule per chromosome, a diploid ploidy of $2n$, $10$ centromeres, and $1$ chromatid per chromosome.