Comparing DNA & RNA Structure and Endocrine System Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture notes about DNA and RNA structures, hormonal functions, and developmental biology.

Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA)

Genetic material; carries instructions for growth, function, and reproduction.

Ribonucleic Acid (RNA)

Helps use DNA instructions to make proteins.

Nucleotide

The building block of DNA.

Photo 51

An X-ray diffraction photograph of DNA taken by Rosalind Franklin.

Nitrogenous base

A flat structure inside the DNA helix.

Semiconservative replication

The method by which DNA replicates, preserving one old strand and creating one new strand.

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

Stimulates adrenal glands to release steroid hormones.

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

Stimulates thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones.

Vasopressin (ADH)

Antidiuretic hormone that controls water balance in kidneys.

Positive Feedback

A control mechanism where the response amplifies the stimulus; example includes childbirth.

Hermaphroditism

Presence of both male and female reproductive organs.

Microcephaly

Abnormally small head size.

Prolactin

Stimulates milk production.

Vanishing Twin Syndrome

Loss of one twin during early pregnancy.

Sperm Abnormalities

Defects in sperm that affect fertility.

Embryo Development

Stage where major organs become visible by the third month of pregnancy.

Amniotic Sac

A thin membrane that forms around the embryo during the third week of pregnancy.

Hypothalamus

Brain region that links the nervous system and endocrine system.

Antagonistic Hormones

Hormones, such as parathyroid hormone and calcitonin, that work oppositely to regulate blood calcium levels.

Hormone Regulation Mechanism

Feedback mechanism that controls hormone levels in the bloodstream.

Fight-or-Flight Hormone Source

Adrenal gland releases hormones such as adrenaline.