Genetics Flashcards
Gene
A segment of DNA that contains the instructions for making proteins.
Genetic linkage
The tendency of DNA sequences that are close together on a chromosome to be inherited together during meiosis
Sex chromosome
Chromosomes that determine an individuals biological sex.
Dihybrid cross
A breeding experiment that involves crossing two organisms that are heterozygous for two different traits
Homozygous
Having two identical versions of a gene, one inherited from each biological parent
Codominance
A genetic phenomenon where two versions of a gene(alleles) are expressed equally, resulting in the appearance of both traits.
Incomplete dominance
A genetic phenomenon where the phenotype of a heterozygous is a blend of the phenotypes of its two homozygous parents
Multiple alleles
Occur when there are more than two different versions of a gene, or alleles, for a trait in a population.
Phenotype
The observable traits of an organism, including its physical, biochemical, physiological, and behavioural characteristics.
Dominant
A specific version of a gene that expresses itself more strongly than other versions of the gene.
Allele
The alternative form or version of a gene
Heterozygous
A term that describes having two different versions of the same gene
Gamete
A reproductive cell, or sex cell, in an animal or plant that carries out fertilization
Genotype
The genetic makeup of an organism
Monohybrid cross
A breeding experiment that involves crossing two organisms that differ in a single genetic trait
Recessive
A sections of genetic information that is unlikely to be expressed in an individual.
Test Cross
A breeding procedure that determines an organism’s genotype by mating it with an organism that has a known genetic makeup for a trait.
Carrier
Someone who has a genetic variant or mutation that they can pass on to their children but who doesn’t show symptoms of the disease or trait associated with it.
Segregation
The process by which gene variants, or alleles, separate into reproductive cells
Independent assortment
Describes how different genes independently separate from one another when reproductive cells develop.
Sex linked
Refers to the inheritance and expression of traits that are influenced by genes on the sex chromosomes
Traits
A specific characteristic of an organism that can be determined by genes, environment factors, or both
Mendel’s inherited traits
Mendel studied how traits like flower colour, seed shape, and plant height are passed down through generations.
Barr body’s
An inactive X chromosome found in the somatic cells of female mammals
