Chapter_6_Microbial_Genetics

Genome

The complete set of genetic material in an organism, including both coding (genes) and non-coding regions.

Chromosome

A structure made of DNA that carries genes coding for proteins or RNA, determining traits and functions of an organism.

Plasmid

Small circular DNA in bacteria and some eukaryotes, often carrying genes for antibiotic resistance.

Euchromatin

Loosely packed chromatin that is accessible for transcription and contains active genes.

Heterochromatin

Densely packed chromatin that is generally transcriptionally inactive.

Gene

A DNA segment that directs the synthesis of a specific protein or RNA, performing a cellular function.

Promoter

The DNA sequence where RNA polymerase binds to start transcription.

Codon

A three-nucleotide sequence in mRNA specifying an amino acid or stop signal during protein synthesis.

Operon

A cluster of genes under the control of a single promoter, allowing coordinated regulation in prokaryotes.

Mutations

DNA sequence changes that can alter the genetic code, occurring naturally or induced by environmental factors.

Transduction

The process by which a bacteriophage carries DNA from a donor cell to a recipient cell.

Transformation

The uptake of small fragments of soluble DNA from the environment by a bacterial cell.

Conjugation

A mode of genetic exchange where genetic material is transferred from a donor to a recipient cell through direct contact.

Spliceosome

A molecular complex that excises introns and joins exons during RNA processing in eukaryotes.

cAMP-CAP Complex

A protein complex that enhances RNA polymerase binding to the promoter in the absence of glucose.

RNA polymerase

The enzyme that synthesizes RNA from a DNA template during transcription.

Telomere

The repetitive nucleotide sequences at the ends of linear chromosomes that protect them from deterioration.

Ribosome

A cellular structure that facilitates the assembly of amino acids into polypeptides during translation.

Point Mutation

A mutation where a single nucleotide change alters the amino acid sequence of a protein.

Frameshift Mutation

A mutation caused by insertions or deletions of nucleotides that shifts the reading frame of the genetic code.