Understanding DNA and Genetic Information

A series of flashcards summarizing key concepts related to DNA, its structure, function, and mechanisms of heredity.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid; the molecule that carries genetic information.

Transforming Factor

The substance that causes genetic transformation, identified by Griffith.

Bacteriophage

A virus that infects bacteria.

Codon

A three-base sequence in RNA that codes for a specific amino acid.

Gene

A segment of DNA that contains the instructions for building a particular protein.

RNA

Ribonucleic acid; a nucleic acid involved in the synthesis of proteins.

Exon

Coding regions of RNA that are expressed or translated into proteins.

Intron

Noncoding regions of RNA that are removed during RNA splicing.

Transcription

The process of synthesizing RNA from a DNA template.

Translation

The process of converting RNA into a polypeptide (protein) sequence.

Mutagen

Any physical or chemical agent that can cause mutations in DNA.

Mutations

Changes in the nucleotide sequence of DNA.

Silent Mutation

A type of mutation that does not change the encoded amino acid.

Base Substitution

A mutation involving the replacement of one nucleotide with another.

Base Insertion

A mutation involving the addition of one or more nucleotide pairs.

Base Deletion

A mutation involving the removal of one or more nucleotide pairs.

DNA Replication

The process of copying DNA to create two identical DNA molecules.

Complementary Base Pairing

The specific matching of DNA bases: A with T, and C with G.

Double Helix

The structure formed by two strands of DNA wound around each other.

Nucleotide

The building block of DNA and RNA, consisting of a sugar, phosphate, and nitrogenous base.