Mechanisms of Genetics

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to the mechanisms of genetics, as discussed in the lecture notes.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, the master copy of an organism's genetic information.

Nucleotide

The building block of DNA, composed of a sugar (deoxyribose), a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

Double Helix

The structure formed by two long chains of nucleotides in DNA.

Base Pair

A pair of complementary nitrogenous bases that form the rungs of the DNA ladder.

Gene Expression

The process by which the information in a gene is used to synthesize a protein.

Differentiation

The process by which unspecialized cells develop into specific cell types with unique structures and functions.

RNA

Ribonucleic Acid, a nucleic acid that contains the sugar ribose and uses uracil instead of thymine.

mRNA

Messenger RNA, which carries genetic code from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis.

tRNA

Transfer RNA, which delivers amino acids to ribosomes during protein synthesis.

rRNA

Ribosomal RNA, a component of ribosomes that plays a key role in protein synthesis.

Protein Synthesis

The process by which cells make proteins, through transcription and translation.

Codon

A sequence of three nitrogen bases on mRNA that codes for a specific amino acid.

Mutation

A permanent change in the nucleotide sequence of DNA.

Substitution Mutation

A mutation where one nucleotide is replaced with another.

Insertion Mutation

A mutation where an extra base is added to the DNA sequence.

Deletion Mutation

A mutation where a base is removed from the DNA sequence.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that produces gametes with half the number of chromosomes of the parent cell.

Haploid

A cell that contains half the number of chromosomes (1n).

Diploid

A cell that contains two sets of homologous chromosomes (2n).

Allele

Different forms of a gene that can exist at a specific locus on a chromosome.

Homozygous

Having two identical alleles for a trait.

Heterozygous

Having two different alleles for a trait.

Genotype

The genetic constitution of an organism, representing the gene combination.

Phenotype

The observable physical characteristics of an organism.

Punnett Square

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

Codominance

A form of inheritance in which both alleles in a heterozygous organism contribute to the phenotype.

Incomplete Dominance

A form of inheritance where neither allele is completely dominant, resulting in a blend of traits.