Unit 6: Gene Expression and Regulation (annotated)

DNA

The molecule composed of nucleotides containing deoxyribose sugar, phosphate, and nitrogenous bases (adenine, guanine, cytosine, thymine).

Double Helix

The structure formed by two DNA strands wrapping around each other.

DNA Replication

The process of copying DNA, involving unwinding, formation of replication fork, addition of nucleotides by DNA polymerase, and creation of leading and lagging strands.

Transcription

The process of making an RNA copy of a DNA segment, involving RNA polymerase, promoters, sense and antisense strands.

Translation

The process of protein synthesis from mRNA on ribosomes, involving codons, tRNA with anticodons, and initiation, elongation, and termination phases.

Gene Regulation

The control of gene expression through transcription factors, epigenetic changes, operons, and post-transcriptional regulation.

Mutations

Changes in the genetic code, including base substitutions, gene rearrangements (insertions, deletions, duplications, inversions, translocations), and their effects.

Bacteria and Viruses

Prokaryotic organisms that reproduce by fission and can exchange genetic material through conjugation; nonliving agents with a protein shell and genetic material, capable of infecting host cells.

Recombinant DNA

DNA created by combining DNA from different sources to form a unique molecule not found in nature.

Genetic engineering

Technology involving the transfer of genes between cells to create new organisms or products.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Laboratory technique used to amplify billions of copies of genes in a short time.

Amplification

Process of creating multiple copies of a gene.

Transformation

Process of introducing foreign DNA into bacteria.

Transfection

Similar to transformation, it involves inserting a plasmid into a eukaryotic cell.

Gel electrophoresis

Technique to separate DNA fragments based on molecular weight and charge.

Polymorphisms

Differences in DNA sequences leading to varying lengths of restriction fragments.

Restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs)

DNA fragments with varying lengths due to polymorphisms.

DNA sequencing

Method to determine the order of nucleotides in a DNA molecule, aiding in the study of genes.