B13 - Reproduction And Genetics Flashcards
Alleles
Different forms of the same gene sometimes referred to as variants.
Asexual reproduction
Involves only one individual and the offspring is identical to the parent. There is no fusion of gametes or mixing of genetic information.
Bases (DNA)
Nitrogenous compounds that make up part of the structure of DNA and RNA. They are represented by the letters A, T, C, and G.
Carriers
Individuals who are heterozygous for a recessive allele linked to a genetic disorder. Carriers have one healthy allele so are not affected themselves but they can pass on the affected allele to their offspring.
Cystic fibrosis
An inherited disorder that affects the lungs, digestive, and reproductive system and is inherited through a recessive allele.
Dominant allele
The phenotype will be apparent in the offspring even if only one of the alleles is inherited.
Generic engineering
The process by which scientists can manipulate and change the genotype of an organism.
Genotype
The genetic makeup of an individual for a particular characteristic, for example hair or eye colour.
Heterozygote
Individual with different alleles for a characteristic.
Homozygote
Individual with two identical alleles for a characteristic.
Meiosis
Two stage process of cell division that reduces the chromosome number of daughter cells. It is involved in making gametes for sexual reproduction.
Mutation
A change in the genetic material of an organism.
Natural selection
The process by which evolution takes place. Organisms produce more offspring than the environment can support. Only those that are most suited to their environment will survive to breed and pass on their useful characteristics to their offspring.
Nucleotide
A molecule made up of a sugar, a phosphate group, and one of four different bases. They are key units in the structure of DNA and RNA.
Phenotype
The physical appearance / biochemistry of an individual for a particular characteristic.
