4.3 DNA and inheritence Flashcards
Name the 4 base pairs.
- Adenine (A)
- Thymine (T)
- Cytosine (C)
- Guanine (G)
Define DNA.
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a chemical made up of two long molecules, arranged in a double-helix structure. This carries genetic information, which has all the instructions that a living organism needs to grow, reproduce and function.
Define Gene.
A gene is a small section of DNA on a chromosome, which codes for a particular sequence of amino acids, to make a specific protein.
Define Chromosome.
A chromosome is the structure made of DNA that codes for all the characteristics of an organism.
Define Dominant.
The dominant allele always expresses itself whether it is partnered by a recessive allele or by another like itself.
Define Recessive.
The recessive allele describes the variant of a gene for a particular characteristic which is masked or suppressed in the presence of the dominant variant.
Define Gamete.
Gametes are an organism’s reproductive cells, also referred to as sex cells.
Think - Sex is a game including consent and tea lol
Define Homozygous.
A genotype in which the two alleles for the characteristic are identical.
Define Heterozygous.
A genotype in which the two alleles for a particular characteristic are different.
Define Genotype.
The alleles that an organism has for a particular characteristic, usually written as letters.
Define Allele.
Alleles are different versions of the same gene.
What is a punnett square?
A punnett square is a grid that shows the possible combinations of alleles that can result at fertilisation.
Describe the process of genetic profiling.
- Isolation: Seperate the DNA from other tissues.
- Fragmentation: Use an enzyme to break the DNA into short lenghs.
- Seperation: Pass an electric current across a layer of gel which has the DNA fragments at one end.
- Comparison: Match the pattern of fragments on the gel with other samples of DNA.
Describe the process of genetic profiling.
- Isolation: Seperate the DNA from other tissues;
- Fragmentation: Use an enzyme to break the DNA into short lenghs;
- Seperation: Pass an electric current across a layer of gel which has the DNA fragments at one end;
- Comparison: Match the pattern of fragments on the gel with other samples of DNA.
What can genetic profiling be used for?
- Solving crimes;
- Determining paternity;
- Detecting a biological link between two people;
- Identifying a dead body that is too decayed or damaged to be recognizable;
- Match tissues of organ donors with those of people who need transplants;
- Identify deseases passed down through your family;
- Help find cures for some diseases.
