Inheritance Flashcards
Def. Inheritance
The transmission of genetic information from generation to generation
Def. Chromosome
Thread-like structures of DNA, carrying genetic information in the form of genes
Def. Gene
A short length of DNA found on a chromosome that codes for a specific protein
(e.g. structural protein, enzymes or hormones)
Def. Allele
Different versions of a particular gene which give organisms their characteristics.
Def. Variation
Differences between individuals within the same species generated by genetics or mutations
Def. Haploid
A nucleus containing a single set of unpaired chromosomes
Def. Diploid
A nucleus with two sets of each chromosome
How DNA is linked to inheritance?
- DNA carries genetic information in the form of genes that can be passed on from parent to offspring.
- It is carried in the chromosomes, which are transferred from parent to offspring by gametes.
- These gametes fuse and create a new organism which inherits its genetic information from its parents.
What does DNA stand for?
Deoxyribose nucleic acid
What is the role and appearance of DNA?
DNA strands are helical thread-like structures that carry genetic information in the form of genes. This genetic information is used to program the synthesis of proteins and is passed on through inheritance to allow for the creation of offspring.
What is the polymer of DNA?
Nucleotides
What are the four different types of nucleotides (bases)?
A, T, G, C
What does complementary mean?
In terms of nucleotides
Bases that always pair with another specific base on the opposite strand of DNA
Which nucleotide is complementary to A?
T
Which nucleotide is complementary to G?
C
What determines the shape and function of a protein?
The order of amino acids gives the protein a shape, and the shape dictates its function
How many different types of amino acids are there in humans?
20
What determines the sequence of amino acids?
The mRNA strand base order is used to synthesise a protein
How does a cell read a DNA sequence?
The DNA is transferred into messenger RNA which is small enough to pass through the nuclear pores and a ribosome reads the strands
What are the stages of protein synthesis and where do they take place?
Transcription takes place in the DNA molecule
Translation takes place in the ribosome