Chapter 1 Flashcards
Gene
A segment of DNA that codes for a protein or RNA product
Allele
Any difference in a gene, even a tiny one
Allele vs Gene
A gene would be “hair color” an allele would be the colors it can be
What is the relationship between a gene and DNA?
A gene is a portion of a DNA molecule
They are made of DNA
Genotype
The combination of alleles for a given gene
Different alleles may produce difference versions of a _____
protein
What makes alleles different?
They are both versions of the same gene, but with slightly different nucleotide sequences
Homologous chromosomes
Matched pairs of chromosomes containing genes for the same traits in identical locations
Chromosomal Theory of inheritance
States that inherited traits are controlled by genes, which are on chromosomes, that are transmitted via gametes
Preformationism
The old theory that a miniature version of a person was inside every gamete and simply grew larger
Epigenesis
The now widely accepted theory that we arise from an undifferentiated fertilized egg via progressive stages of development
Explain the Central Dogma of Genetics
It describes the flow of information, where genes made of DNA are used to make a temporary copy made of mRNA and this temporary form of information is then used to make proteins. The proteins help build a phenotype for a person
Transcription vs Translation
Transcription: DNA -> RNA The process that creates RNA from information stored in DNA
Translation: RNA -> Protein The process that uses the info in mRNA to synthesis a protein
Mutation
Any change in DNA sequence. The original source of alleles
What is the fundamental unit of heredity?
Genes
