Exam 1: Lecture 1 Flashcards
Introduction
define genetics
it is considered a field of biology, but has many overlaps. it studies genes, heredity, and genetic variation in living organisms
define molecular genetics
studies the structure and function of genes at a molecular level. through this study, it is possible to gain insight to heredity, genetic variation, epigenetics and mutations
what is albinism
change/defect in 1 or more genes involved in pigment formation; do not make much pigment
define recessive
inherit a non-functional gene from mom and dad
why is genetics important to indivs, society, and the study of bio?
genes INFLUENCE our lives, CONTRIBUTE to personality, and are FUNDAMENTAL to who and what we are
how does genes affect our susceptibility to many diseases and disorders?
single mutations can cause proper control of differential to be hindered and a normal cell can turn into a cancer cell from an oncogene mutates and becomes inappropriately activated
why are genes important in agriculture?
human cultural evolution; develop high yield crops (domesticated)
why are genes important in biotechnology and medicine?
- avenues like genetic screening open up to detect genetic defects
- genetic engineering alters genetic sequence for heritable changes (gene editing/germline editing)
- medicine via gene therapy to treat inherited diseases
what are the non germline editing techniques?
CRISPR and CAR-T therapy
T/F: genes regulate development and control cellular differentiation
True; protein engrailed
define genome
can be DNA/RNA; contains all the info and instructions to make any organism. Very similar among organisms.
makes me who I am
define transmission genetics
classical genetics, how traits are passed from one generation to the next
define molecular genetics
gene structure, function and regulation
define population genetics
study of evolution
study genetic compositions of groups and how gene frequency changes geographically or with time
define epidemiology
analysis of patterns, causes, and effects of health and disease conditions in defined populations
define a model genetic organism and give examples
an organism with characteristics that make them ideal for genetic analysis
ex: drosphila, E. coli, C. elegans, Arabidopsis, Mus musculus, Yeast, and zebrafish
what are the less known model organisms?
maize, xenopus, dogs, pigs, and sheep
why are model organisms important?
- short generation time (days/weeks)
- numerous progeny (greater combination of genetic components)
- make genetic manipulations (crosses)
- inexpensive
- numerous genetic variation
what is the critical reason why we use model organisms?
critical that we share a common genetic history/component. basic biological similarity among all living things; can tell us about ourselves
what are drosophila important for?
studying the regulation of development (Wnt and Notch networks)
why are mouse genomes useful for?
we can modify their genome to make it a better model to study human biology
why is important to not of the C. elegans?
it was the first multicellular organism to have its whole genome sequenced
what are zebrafish useful for?
instrumental in helping to identify genes encoding pigmentation differences among humans
what is good about Arabidopsis plant?
similar to fruit flies; can easily manipulate.
