Genetics Flashcards
Genetics
The study of heredity. How characteristics and traits are passed from parents to offspring.
Gene
A sequence of DNA that codes for a specific protein.
Allele
One of multiple forms of a gene, inherited from each parent.
Genotype
The genetic makeup of an organism. The combination of alleles at a specific locus.
Phenotype
The observable characteristics of an organism. Resulting from a relationship between the genotype and environment.
Chromosome
A threadlike structure in the nucleus of a cell that carries genetic information, composing of DNA.
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)
The molecule that carries genetic information, composed of base pairs.
Mutation
A change in the DNA sequence, which can lead to altered traits.
Dominant
An allele that is expressed when present in a heterozygous genotype.
Recessive
An allele that is only expressed in a homozygous genotype.
Homozygous
Having two identical alleles for a particular gene.
Heterozygous
Having two different alleles for a particular gene.
Locus
The specific position of a gene on a chromosome.
Genome
The complete set of genetic information in an organism.
Inheritance
The passing of genetic traits from parents to offspring.
Genetic variation
Differences in DNA sequences between individuals within a population.
Epigenetics
The study of changes in gene expression that are not caused by changes in the DNA sequence itself.
Amino acid
A small molecule that serves as the fundamental building block of proteins.
Autosome
A numbered chromosome that is not a sex chromosome.
Protein
Complex molecules that do most of the work in cells.
Co-dominance
A type of inheritance where two different versions of a gene (alleles) are expressed equally and specifically in an organism.
Ancestry
The genetic line of descent of an individual or family, and the information about their genetic relationships.
Trait
A specific characteristic of an organism that is determined by its genes or influenced by its environment.
Cell
The smallest unit of that can live on its own and that makes up all living organisms and the tissues of the body.
Carrier
A person who has a mutated gene that can cause a disease, but does not have the disease symptoms themselves.
