Biology Chapter: DNA and Chromosomes

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Questions and Answers

What does the 5' end of a DNA molecule contain?

  • An intron
  • A hydroxyl group
  • A phosphate group (correct)
  • A nitrogenous base

How do epigenetic marks influence gene expression?

  • Through replication timing
  • By changing the DNA sequence
  • By altering chromosomal count
  • Through DNA methylation and histone modifications (correct)

Which statement is true regarding human chromosome count?

  • Diploid cells have 23 chromosomes
  • Haploid cells contain 46 chromosomes
  • Sperm and egg cells are diploid
  • Diploid cells contain 46 chromosomes (correct)

What is the primary role of mitochondrial DNA?

<p>To synthesize ribosomal RNAs, tRNAs, and essential proteins (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which direction does RNA polymerase synthesize RNA during transcription?

<p>5' to 3' (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly describes the role of telomeres in chromosomes?

<p>Telomeres prevent the loss of genetic material during replication. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does mitochondrial DNA differ from nuclear DNA in terms of inheritance?

<p>Mitochondrial DNA is inherited only from the mother. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes exons in the context of gene expression?

<p>Exons are coding sequences that remain in the final RNA product. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of DNA replication, what does the 5' to 3' designation indicate?

<p>The direction in which DNA polymerase adds nucleotides. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of RNA polymerase during transcription?

<p>To read the DNA strand and synthesize RNA. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

5' and 3' ends of DNA

Specific carbons on the deoxyribose sugar in DNA; the 5' end has a phosphate group, and the 3' end has a hydroxyl group.

Epigenetic Marks

DNA methylation and histone modifications that affect chromatin activity (euchromatin/heterochromatin).

Human Chromosome Count

Diploid cells have 46 chromosomes (23 pairs); gametes (sperm/egg) have 23.

Mitochondrial DNA Inheritance

Inherited only from the mother, as only the egg contributes mitochondria to the zygote.

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Transcription Definition

Synthesizing RNA from a DNA template.

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DNA Replication Direction

DNA is always synthesized in the 5' to 3' direction, meaning the new strand is built by adding nucleotides to the 3' end.

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Chromatin's On/Off Switch

Epigenetic marks like DNA methylation and histone modifications control whether a region of DNA is accessible for transcription (euchromatin) or not (heterochromatin).

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Exon or Intron?

Exons are coding sequences in DNA that are translated into protein, while introns are non-coding sequences that are removed during RNA processing.

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Telomere's Purpose

Telomeres are protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that prevent DNA loss during replication.

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Study Notes

DNA Structure and Orientation

  • 5' and 3' designations refer to carbons on the deoxyribose sugar.
  • 5' end has a phosphate group; 3' end has a hydroxyl group.
  • Directionality of DNA and RNA synthesis is 5' → 3'.

Chromatin and Epigenetics

  • Epigenetic marks (methylation, histone modifications) control chromatin activity (euchromatin vs. heterochromatin).
  • Exons are coding sequences in DNA; introns are spliced out.

Human Chromosomes

  • Diploid cells have 46 chromosomes (23 pairs).
  • Haploid cells (sperm/egg) have 23 chromosomes.
  • Telomeres are sequences at chromosome ends protecting against genetic loss during replication.

Mitochondrial DNA

  • Inherited exclusively from the mother (egg provides mitochondria).
  • Codes for some ribosomal RNAs, transfer RNAs, and proteins crucial for mitochondrial function.

Transcription

  • Synthesis of RNA from a DNA template.
  • RNA polymerase performs transcription by creating a complementary RNA strand from a DNA template.
  • Transcription occurs 5' → 3' on the newly synthesized RNA strand.

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