BY450 Genetics & Evolution - Lecture 3

A process of separating two DNA strands, using high temperature to break hydrogen bonds between base pairs.

The process of short, single-stranded DNA sequences (called primers) binding to complementary regions on the DNA strands.

The stage where a new DNA strand is synthesized, using the original strand as a template, by adding nucleotides to the primer.

The process of creating multiple copies of a specific DNA segment, often used in research and diagnostics.

The initial steps in the PCR cycle involve heating and cooling to separate the DNA double helix, allowing primers to bind, and then building new DNA strands from the primer.

A diagram representing the process of meiosis, including the separation of maternal and paternal chromosomes and the independent assortment of alleles.

A short sequence of DNA that is complementary to a specific region of the target DNA. It acts as a starting point for DNA polymerase to synthesize new DNA strands.

The two copies of a chromosome, one inherited from each parent, that carry the same genes but may have different alleles.

A type of DNA polymerase enzyme that is used in PCR. It is heat-stable and can withstand the high temperatures required for PCR.

Alternative forms of a gene, located at the same locus on homologous chromosomes, that can influence a specific trait.

The process by which homologous chromosomes separate during meiosis I, ensuring that each daughter cell receives one copy of each chromosome.

The process of separating DNA strands by heat, allowing for replication.

The process of annealing primers to the target DNA strands, allowing for replication initiation.

The genetic makeup of an organism, represented by the combination of alleles it carries for a specific gene.

The process of extending the primer by adding nucleotides complementary to the target DNA.

The observable characteristics of an organism determined by its genotype and environmental factors.

A technique that uses cycles of denaturation, annealing, and extension to amplify a specific region of DNA.

A change in the nucleotide sequence of a gene.

The process by which genetic information encoded in DNA is transcribed into RNA and then translated into a protein, leading to expression of the gene.

The specific region of DNA being targeted for amplification in PCR.

The process by which a diploid cell divides into four haploid daughter cells (gametes) with a complete haploid component of the genome.

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

A duplicated chromosome, consisting of two identical sister chromatids.

A cell containing two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

A cell containing one set of chromosomes.

The process by which offspring inherit a combination of genes from both parents.

A gene cassette is a segment of DNA containing a transgene, a promoter sequence, and a terminator sequence. This cassette allows the transgene to be expressed correctly in a new organism.

The CaMV35S promoter, derived from the cauliflower mosaic virus, initiates the expression of a transgene. It acts like a switch, turning on the gene's activity.

The NOS terminator, derived from the Ti plasmid in Agrobacterium tumefaciens, signals the end of the transgene's expression. It acts like a stop button for the gene's activity.

A transgene is a gene that is transferred from one organism to another. This new gene can confer specific characteristics to the recipient organism.

The genetic relatedness of organisms can be assessed by comparing their DNA sequences. Organisms with similar DNA sequences are typically more closely related.

DNA molecules are extremely small and cannot be observed directly with conventional microscopes. Therefore, special techniques are used to visualize or analyze their sequences.

The process of placing DNA in a microcentrifuge tube with some water allows for its manipulation and preparation for various analytical techniques. It is a fundamental step in many DNA-based experiments.

The optimal temperature for the DNA polymerase enzyme to work efficiently during extension.

The process of increasing the temperature to optimize the activity of the polymerase enzyme in PCR.

The amount of DNA sequences between the primers doubles with each cycle of PCR.

The process where a specific DNA sequence is replicated numerous times, resulting in a large number of copies.

The use of PCR to diagnose diseases, identify individuals, or study genetic variation.