3100

Class Overview

  • First week of classes went smoothly, with positive feedback.

  • Students have completed quizzes early; encouragement to continue this trend.

  • Acknowledgment of student patience regarding lecture uploads and material accessibility.

  • Availability of reading materials posted on Blackboard is noted; they will serve as supplemental references for critical analyses.

Class Structure and Content

  • Lecture and Readings

    • Lectures will be posted before class to facilitate better preparation.

    • Readings will be integrated contextually during class.

  • Exam Information

    • Readings may be referenced in exams, particularly in critical thinking questions rather than factual recall of readings.

    • Examinations will focus more on understanding concepts rather than memorizing sources.

DNA & Genetics Introduction

  • Role of DNA and Genetics in Biological Anthropology

    • Quick review aimed at aligning knowledge for all students, including those less familiar with biology.

    • Introduction of the lecture’s focus: forensic genealogy and its implications.

Core Concepts in DNA and Cells

  • Cells

    • Fundamental unit of life; all organisms consist of cells.

    • Cells evolve over time; focus on eukaryotic cells for today's discussion.

    • Cell Division: Important for growth and reproduction, relevant to understanding evolution and genetics.

  • Types of Cells

    • Eukaryotic Cells

    • Two broad categories: Somatic cells (body cells, 46 chromosomes) and Gametes (sex cells, 23 chromosomes).

  • DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

    • DNA is the genetic material forming chromosomes; it governs body functions by coding for proteins.

    • Coding vs. Non-Coding DNA: Coding DNA has functional roles in protein synthesis while non-coding DNA generally does not contribute to protein production.

Definitions and Concepts

  • Genome: A complete set of chromosomes representing inheritable traits in an individual cell.

  • DNA Structure: Double helix, composed of sugar, phosphate, and nitrogen bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, guanine).

  • DNA Replication: Process of copying DNA during cell division. Key steps:

    • Helicase enzyme unzips DNA strands, allowing nucleotides to pair.

    • Nucleotides comprise phosphate, sugar, and nitrogen base components.

    • New daughter strands form, each with one original and one new strand.

  • Cell Division Types

    • Mitosis: Produces two identical diploid daughter cells from a parent diploid cell.

    • Meiosis: Produces four non-identical haploid gametes from a diploid cell (involves two divisions).

Mutation and Genetics Significance

  • Mutations: Source of genetic diversity, occurring randomly and sometimes due to environmental factors.

    • Can be benign, beneficial, or harmful depending on the context (coding vs. non-coding mutations).

Forensic Genetics and Genealogy

  • Forensic Genealogy: Use of genetic information to trace ancestry and assist in identifying individuals in criminal cases.

    • Involves DNA types: Autosomal DNA (nuclear DNA), mtDNA (mitochondrial DNA), and