Bacterial Genetics and Biochemistry

These flashcards cover key concepts related to bacterial genetics and biochemistry, focusing on processes like DNA replication, transcription, translation, and gene regulation.

Bacterial biochemistry

An ancient, versatile, and impactful field that explores the biochemical processes in bacteria.

Genome

The complete set of genetic information in organisms, which includes chromosomes and plasmids.

DNA replication

The process of duplicating the DNA molecule so its encoded information can be passed on to the next generation.

Transcription

The process of copying the information in DNA into RNA.

Translation

The interpretation of the information carried by RNA to synthesize the encoded protein.

Plasmid

An extra-chromosomal genetic element that is not essential for survival but can confer advantageous traits such as antibiotic resistance.

Operon

A functioning unit of genomic DNA containing a cluster of genes under the control of a single promoter.

Sigma factor

A protein needed for the initiation of transcription in bacteria, which recognizes specific promoter sequences.

Codon

A set of three nucleotides in mRNA that codes for a specific amino acid.

Ribosome

A molecular machine composed of rRNA and proteins that facilitates the translation of mRNA into a protein.

Hydrogen bonding in DNA

The attraction between complementary nitrogenous bases, which stabilizes the double helix structure.

Antiparallel

Referring to the orientation of the two strands of DNA, which run in opposite directions.

mRNA

Messenger RNA that carries the genetic information from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis.

Lac operon

A model for understanding gene regulation in bacteria, especially how lactose metabolism is controlled.

Polygenic mRNA

An mRNA molecule that codes for more than one gene, common in prokaryotes.

5' and 3' ends of nucleic acids

The terms that denote the directionality of nucleic acid strands; crucial for the synthesis and direction of transcription.

DNA polymerase

An enzyme responsible for synthesizing DNA strands by adding nucleotides to a growing chain.

Elongation in translation

The phase in protein synthesis where amino acids are sequentially added to form a polypeptide chain.

Termination in translation

The process where the synthesis of a polypeptide chain ceases upon encountering a stop codon.

Ribosome-binding site

A sequence in mRNA that ensures the ribosome assembles correctly for translation.

Shine-Dalgarno sequence

A ribosomal binding site in bacterial mRNA that is complementary to a region on the 16S rRNA.

Gene expression regulation

The control over the timing and amount of gene transcription and translation, impacting protein levels in a cell.