Biology 111 Lab Study Guide

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts from the Biology 111 lab study guide, including cell division, genetics, molecular biology, and evolution.

Mitosis

The process of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells, crucial for growth and repair.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four genetically diverse gametes.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell spends most of its time preparing for division, consisting of G1, S, and G2 phases.

Prophase

The first stage of mitosis where chromosomes condense and become visible, and the nuclear envelope breaks down.

Anaphase

The phase in mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell.

Homologous chromosomes

Pairs of chromosomes that are similar in shape, size, and genetic content, one from each parent.

Punnett square

A diagram used to predict the genotype and phenotype outcomes of a genetic cross.

BRCA mutations

Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes that increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer.

Central dogma of molecular biology

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

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

A technique used to amplify a specific segment of DNA, making millions of copies for analysis.

Natural selection

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

Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium

A principle that describes the genetic variation in a population that is not evolving.

iPS cells (induced pluripotent stem cells)

Stem cells that have been generated from adult cells and can differentiate into any cell type.

Transcription factors

Proteins that regulate gene expression by binding to specific DNA sequences.

Gel electrophoresis

A laboratory method used to separate DNA, RNA, or proteins based on their size and charge.

Genetic drift

A mechanism of evolution that refers to random changes in allele frequencies in a population.