Genes, DNA and chromosomes Flashcards
What is a gene?
A specific sequence of nucleotides that contain the genetic information that determine the sequence of AA in protein synthesis
Where are they found?
On a fixed position, a locus, on a strand of DNA or chromosome
What is non-coding DNA? What does it contain?
- DNA that doesn’t code for polypeptides
- Introns= Base sequences in genes but don’t code for amino acids
- Multiple repeats= Base sequences in genes that is often repeated again and again
What are alleles?How do alleles of a gene differ?
A specific type of gene that codes for different types of the same characteristic. They differ in their base sequence and code for different sequences of amino acids so different polypeptides are produced, sometimes non-functional
Describe DNA in eukaryotes
It’s linear and associated/ wrapped around histone proteins. In nucleus surrounded by a nuclear membrane
Describe DNA in prokaryotes
DNA is smaller, circular and not associated with histone proteins. Prokaryotes don’t form chromosomes
What is a chromosome?
Structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus carrying genes
What is a proteome?
Full range of proteins produced by the genome
What is a pair of homologous chromosomes?
Have the same structural features. They’re the same length and carry genes on the same loci position that control the same characteristics but not necessarily the same alleles
