Genomes and Their Evolution

These flashcards cover key concepts from Chapter 21 on Genomes and Their Evolution, helping to reinforce vocabulary and definitions integral to understanding the subject matter.

Human Genome Project

A project aimed at determining the complete nucleotide sequence of the human genome, officially begun in 1990 and published in 2006.

Bioinformatics

An interdisciplinary field that combines biology and computer science to analyze biological data, particularly DNA and amino acid sequences.

Whole-genome shotgun (WGS) approach

A method for sequencing genomes by randomly cutting DNA into fragments and then assembling those sequences back into a continuous strand.

Gene annotation

The identification of protein-coding genes within DNA sequences in a database through automated processes.

Proteomics

The study of large sets of proteins and their properties, focusing on how proteins function within biological systems.

Transposable elements

Segments of DNA that can move from one location to another within the genome, contributing to genetic diversity.

Polyploidy

A condition in which an organism has extra sets of chromosomes, often resulting from accidents in meiosis.

Gene family

A collection of two or more identical or very similar genes, such as the related α-globins and β-globins in humans.

Genome size

The total amount of DNA contained within one copy of a single genome.

Noncoding DNA

DNA sequences that do not code for proteins, including introns and regulatory sequences.