Genetics Flashcards
What are specialised cells?
Cells with a specific shape and/or function
How many cell types are in the body?
Around 200
How are cells specialised?
The structure and function of the cell is determined by the different proteins expressed by the cell
What are the two main types of protein in the body?
- Structural proteins (create and build structure - e.g. keratin, collagen)
- Globular proteins (allow functions - e.g. antibody)
How often do gastrointestinal epithelial cells divide?
Every 3-4 days
How often do basal skin cells divide?
Every 10-30 days
How often to neurons divide?
Rarely if ever
What body cells can produce gametes?
testes cells and ovary cells
What are the main functions of RNA?
- Copy DNA instructions so proteins can be made
- Build new proteins in cytoplasm
- Form ribosomes
Define gene
Part of a DNA molecule that codes for a particular protein
How many genes do humans have?
20,000-25,000 spread across the chromosomes
How much of DNA is coding?
Around 2%
How much DNA is non coding?
around 98%
What does the genome consist of?
All of the DNA in the nucleus and the mitochondria
How is a protein’s structure and function determined?
By the order of the amino acids