Lesson 2: Heredity, Prenatal Development, and Birth Flashcards
What is the basic building block of the nature perspective in heredity?
The gene is the basic building block, influencing the structure and functions of cells.
How many genes are estimated to exist in humans?
Approximately 20,500 genes according to the Human Genome Project.
What process creates most cells in the human body?
Mitosis, where the cell nucleus makes an exact copy of all chromosomes and splits into two cells.
How are gametes formed, and how are they unique?
Gametes are formed through meiosis, producing cells with half the genetic material, resulting in genetic uniqueness.
What determines the sex of a child genetically?
The 23rd pair of chromosomes, with XY resulting in a male and XX in a female.
What is the difference between genotype and phenotype?
Genotype is the total set of genes inherited, while phenotype is the expressed physical traits.
What does homozygous mean?
Homozygous refers to inheriting the same version of a gene from both parents.
What are dominant and recessive genes?
Dominant genes express themselves in the phenotype even when paired with a different gene, while recessive genes require two similar copies to be expressed.
What is polygenic inheritance?
Traits resulting from the interaction of multiple genes.
What is incomplete dominance, and give an example?
When a dominant gene does not fully suppress a recessive one, as in carriers of sickle cell disease.
What are examples of recessive genetic disorders?
Sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, and PKU.
How is Huntington’s disease inherited?
It is a dominant genetic disorder affecting the nervous system and appears in midlife.
Why are males more at risk for sex-linked disorders?
Males have only one X chromosome, so a single recessive gene on it can cause a disorder.
What are examples of sex-linked disorders?
Hemophilia, color blindness, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
What is genetic counseling, and why might individuals seek it?
It provides guidance on genetic risks, often sought due to family history or maternal age.
What causes chromosomal abnormalities?
Errors in cell division, often related to maternal age.
What is Down syndrome?
A condition caused by an extra chromosome 21, leading to developmental and physical challenges.
What is Turner Syndrome?
A condition where part or all of one X chromosome is missing, affecting females.
What is Klinefelter Syndrome?
A condition in males with an extra X chromosome, causing infertility and other symptoms.
What are trisomy disorders, and name two examples?
Conditions caused by an extra chromosome; examples include Trisomy 13 and Trisomy 18.
What is behavioral genetics?
The study of how genetics and environment influence behavior.
What are genotype-environment correlations?
Ways genes influence the environment, including passive, evocative, and active correlations.
What is niche-picking?
Seeking environments that complement one’s genetic tendencies.
How does epigenetics affect gene expression?
Environmental factors like stress and nutrition can modify DNA expression without altering the sequence.
What is an example of genotype-environment interaction?
Children with genetic predispositions to mental health issues are more affected by parenting styles.
What are the three stages of prenatal development?
Germinal, embryonic, and fetal stages.
What happens during the germinal period?
Fertilization to implantation, involving cell division and the formation of the blastocyst.
What defines the embryonic period?
Major organ formation and vulnerability to teratogens.
When does the fetal period begin?
From the ninth week of pregnancy to birth.
What is cephalocaudal development?
Growth from head to tail direction in the embryo.
What is a teratogen?
An environmental factor that causes birth defects.
How does the timing of teratogen exposure affect the fetus?
Damage is most severe during critical periods of organ development.
What is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)?
A condition caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy, leading to physical and cognitive impairments.
How does smoking affect prenatal development?
It can lead to low birth weight, preterm birth, and respiratory issues.
What is Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome?
Withdrawal symptoms in babies born to mothers using addictive drugs.
How does maternal age impact pregnancy?
Older mothers face higher risks of complications like genetic disorders and preeclampsia.
What are common pregnancy complications in teenagers?
Higher risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, and anemia.
What is gestational diabetes?
A condition causing high blood sugar during pregnancy, potentially harming mother and baby.
How does stress affect pregnancy?
High stress levels can lead to preterm birth and low birth weight.
What is postpartum depression?
A serious mood disorder occurring after childbirth.
What is the purpose of ultrasounds in pregnancy?
To monitor fetal health, growth, and development.
What is amniocentesis?
A procedure to test amniotic fluid for genetic conditions.
What is chorionic villus sampling (CVS)?
A test involving placental tissue to detect genetic abnormalities.
Why is prenatal care essential?
It identifies and mitigates risks to mother and fetus.
How does maternal blood screening help?
It detects potential genetic or chromosomal issues.
What is ectopic pregnancy?
A condition where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus.
What is preeclampsia?
A pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and organ damage.
What is spontaneous abortion?
A miscarriage, often caused by chromosomal abnormalities.
How do infections affect pregnancy outcomes?
They increase risks of premature birth and birth defects.
What are the risks of excessive weight gain during pregnancy?
It can lead to gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.
What is the Lamaze method?
A childbirth preparation technique focusing on relaxation and breathing.
What are the stages of vaginal delivery?
Labor, delivery of the baby, and delivery of the placenta.
Why might a Caesarean delivery be performed?
To address complications like fetal distress or breech position.
What is the Apgar score?
A test evaluating a newborn’s physical condition immediately after birth.
What are common newborn health issues?
Jaundice, respiratory distress, and feeding difficulties.
How does paternal age affect offspring?
Older fathers have higher risks of passing on genetic mutations.
What role does paternal behavior play in prenatal health?
Exposure to secondhand smoke or hazardous chemicals can harm the fetus.
How do occupational hazards impact paternal contributions?
Chemicals like pesticides can cause genetic mutations in sperm.
How can fathers support healthy pregnancies?
By maintaining healthy lifestyles and reducing exposure to toxins.
What is the significance of paternal involvement during pregnancy?
Active support improves maternal well-being and prenatal outcomes.
